Don Suero 1978

Wine: Don Suero 1978

Winery: Bodegas Vinos de León - VILE (León)
Appellation / Region: Vino fino de mesa (Table Wine)
Varietals: 100% Prieto Picudo.
ABV: 13%

Winemaking
The wine spent 6 months in large oak vats to complete fermentation and stabilize before racking. It was subsequently matured for a minimum of 48 months in seasoned 225-liter American oak barriques. Estate bottled in 1983. Presented in the iconic Don Suero Reserva bottle.

 

Tasting Notes (19/07/2013)

 

Appearance: Brilliant reddish-ruby hue of medium depth (capa). Luminous and clean, displaying garnet and orange reflections.

 

Nose: Medium intensity, clean and soft. It reveals a generous amount of ripe red fruit in its prime, featuring liqueur-like and citric nuances (arbutus berries, pomegranate, grapefruit, nectarine, sloe berries). This fruit core is supported by a spicy background of bay leaf and ivy, with a subtle hint of cocoa powder. It stands noticeably apart from the traditional Rioja profile. 

 

Palate: Approachable and light, showing a fresh and fruit-forward character. It still maintains a compelling acidity and an abundance of red fruit jam that overpowers any oak influence. The tannins are fully polished and resolved. Overall, it is a savory and well-executed ensemble—a curious and distinct wine with significant varietal expression despite its age. It proves that the Prieto Picudo from León is capable of aging with great dignity. Remarkably vibrant.

 

Personal Score: 87
Tasting Group Score: 88

Tasting Notes (01/04/2012)

 

Appearance: Brilliant cherry hue of medium depth; more intense than expected for its age. Luminous with reddish glints.

 

Nose: Clean and free of any negative reductive notes. Intense and fruit-forward with a clear varietal character, showing an abundance of ripe red fruit (arbutus berries, watermelon, cherries) alongside subtle vegetal hints and spices. The oak aging contributes notes of vinous staves, wet leather, bread crumbs, cereals, popcorn, and fine creamy nuances.

 

Palate: Highly balanced and full-bodied, yet very approachable with a refreshing point of acidity. The tannins are fully melted and light. While it may lack some mid-palate concentration, it possesses immense personality. A true curiosity.

 

Personal Score: 85
Tasting Group Score: 88