DSG Vineyards Phinca Encanto Rufete 2011

Reviews

DSG

"100% Rufete. The grapes are sourced from the granitic soils of the Sierra de Francia (80%) and the slate soils of the Sierra de Quilamas (20%). Rufete is indigenous to the region, and was the most planted variety in Sierra de Francia prior to the usurpation of preferred grape varietals like Tempranillo. Rufete grapes are medium in size with thin skins forming small, cramped bunches. The variety is very oxidative, which makes it difficult to work with and explains its mercurial status among winemakers. They are hand harvested, after which time they are placed in open top, 500 liter barrels that are 2-3 years old. The grapes macerate for 15 days, during which a light punching down of the cap is done daily. The fermentation occurs naturally with wild yeast and occurs for 15 days. After pressing the wine is aged in French oak barrels where it spends at least two winters in order to complete a natural malolactic fermentation.The wine is cherry red in color and of medium intensity on the palate. It expresses notes of ripe red fruit, redcurrant and spice in the mouth, with medium-plus acidity and a long, enveloping finish."