Tempranillo, Ribera del Duero region. Viña Almate is the name of the first vineyard that Alfredo planted and gives its name to this entry-level Duero wine. Almate is drawn from a number of plots of Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) of varying vine ages; firstly from the old vine, stony terroirs of the high Valtiendas mountains (1,000 metres elevation) as well as Peñafiel, at 700 metres. All the vineyards are hand harvested (there is no other choice with old bush vines), and the winemaking is geared towards a wine of affable, youthful charisma. Fermentation is with native yeasts, with 100% whole bunches. Following 15-20 days of gentle maceration, the wine is raised for four months in neutral French oak with one racking. It is then bottled unfined, unfiltered, and with very low SO2. The 2016 is a classic example of this grower’s uncanny ability to craft expressive wines of terroir at a low-slung tariff. There’s so much deliciousness on offer here – expect blackcurrant, cola and all kinds of spice on the nose and palate, and a vibrant, pulpy and powdery texture with way too much depth and character for the price!