No fewer than seventy grapes are known to have been used in the region to make Rioja. Selecting precisely those grapes that are qualitatively suitable for making modern Rioja is a unique skill. Maturana is one such grape. Historically, it was used for blending with the region's most important grape, Tempranillo. Valdemar has chosen to create a distinctive wine from it, and it is one with plenty of character.
The grapes are harvested by hand in the first week of October. After a rigorous selection process, they are pressed. Fermentation follows, after which the wine matures for an impressive 16 months in American oak barriques. The oak is dried for three years before being used. This gives this Balcon de Pilatos Maturana a soft and refined character, perfectly rounding out the beautiful acidity. A truly special wine.
The aroma reveals intense, sultry fruit, a hint of pepper, a light roast, coffee and chocolate, plums, a pleasant touch of spice, and a touch of delicate vanilla cream. The palate of this Inspiracion Valdemar Balcon de Pilatos Maturana is powerful and distinctive, with lovely acidity, a touch of mint, jam, and a wonderful length. A superb wine with stewed rabbit and aged and mature cheeses.
