Imperio Tempranillo Gran Seleccion No.18 2019

GOLD MEDAL: Berliner Wein Trophy
GOLD MEDAL: Mundus Vini
GOLD MEDAL: Gilbert & Gaillard
92 POINTS: Sam Kim; The Wine Orbit
90 POINTS: Cameron Douglas MS
Top 10 Reds Bob Campbell MW, August 23

"Full-flavoured, gutsy Tempranillo...More vinous than fruity with a pleasingly rustic character. Approachable now - drink up!"
- Bob Campbell MW

Bodega Navarro López is a family-owned estate, originally founded in 1904 by Don Juan Sánchez. Tempranillo grapes are sourced from small growers across the ‘Valdepenas’ region (meaning literally ‘valley of the stones’) The region's climate is arid and strongly continental as the Sierra Morena range to the south of the designation blocks out the Mediterranean's moderating influences. Soils are largely limestone with chalk deposits, originating from ancient geological formations with bands of red clay. The high lime content helps with moisture retention – vital in the hot, dry conditions, where 2,500 hours of scorching sunshine a year are standard. The Jabalon River provides water and air movement through the canopy and altitudes up to 700m provide diurnal variation.

ABV 13%