From: Castilla Y Leon, Spain

Varietal: 100% Prieto Picudo 

Planted at high altitudes on the barren plains of León (northwest Spain) with the Picos de Europa mountains in the background. This region was once one of the most important in Castilla y Leon for grape growing. Prieto Picudo is a near-forgotten Spanish varietal that winemakers/historians like Pedro Gonzalez Mittelbrunn are working hard to revive.

Tasting Notes: This red comes from old vines, organically farmed, aged entirely in stainless steel to preserve the crunchy red fruit flavors. This red has a mineral streak and is bursting with spicy black cherry notes. A great match for sausage and peppers.

From Mary Taylor's site. Pedro González Mittelbrunn, our winemaker, is a León native and Professor of Viticulture & Enology at the University of León. The vineyards are called ‘El Paramo’ and are found in the northern part of the Duero River basin. Prieto Picudo is a native varietal that Professor Mittelbrunn has been instrumental in reviving.

Pairing: Braised venison with polenta, ribeyes with carmelized onion, or fideuà (fideo noodles simmered in a rich, flavorful broth for a finished product that’s similar to paella in that it’s smoky, tomato-y, and umami-packed, with various protein and vegetable add-ins). This Catalan Fideuà by David Tanis is an excellent example!