Wine of the week: Yuntero Reserva 2017

The passage of time is one of the defining elements of Yuntero Reserva 2017, a red wine produced by Bodegas Yuntero from selected grapes from plots linked to the cooperative's history. Protected by the La Mancha DO, this Tempranillo offers a balanced and well-rounded profile, where the fruit coexists with the nuances imparted by aging.

The winemaking process begins with a prolonged fermentation at a controlled temperature, between 24 and 25°C. Afterward, the wine spends 12 months in American and French oak barrels before completing its aging process with another 24 months in the bottle. This process adds complexity to the wine without losing its fruity character.

Bodegas Yuntero, located in Manzanares (Ciudad Real), was founded in 1954 when 102 local winegrowers decided to join forces to produce and market their wines together. Since then, the cooperative has expanded its facilities and production capacity and now has over a thousand members. Its growth has been accompanied by new investments and the addition of new lines of business, while maintaining its connection to the vineyards and winemaking traditions of La Mancha.

Yuntero Reserva 2017: the tasting

Visually, it presents a deep ruby ​​color with terracotta edges.

On the nose it shows a complex profile, with aromas of forest fruits accompanied by subtle spicy and toasted notes, in which memories of vanilla and oak appear from its time in the barrel.

On the palate, it is round and smooth, with well-structured fruit and a balanced mouthfeel that leaves a full and lingering finish. Aging adds depth without masking the fruity character of the Tempranillo.

Due to its structure and gastronomic profile, Yuntero Reserva 2017 pairs well with lamb, game, and beef, as well as stews and other traditional dishes. This Reserva demonstrates how time, both in barrel and bottle, can become an essential part of a La Mancha wine's personality.