
Arlanza is a tiny wine producing region in Spain that is one of the freshest regions that has been labeled DO status. This lush region produces quality wines, although it is small in size. In 2007, the region was given the upgrade, although wine is said to have been produced in the region ever since the 7th century. It is said that the first recorded evidence of winemaking in the region is in the 12th century by monks who bought the vineyards in the region. In the late part of the 1800s, disease ravaged the vines, and the grapes had to be replanted. Soon after, the vines flourished. The region’s name comes from the Arlanza River, which snakes through this Spanish region.
The climate is hot and dry in the summer and is cold during the winter, and gives wines here their signature flavor. The Arlanza region sits in Burgos, Castile, Leon, and Palencia regions of Spain and there are currently 11 wineries in the region. Several varieties are planted in the region and the region has a yield limit for these varieties—giving roughly 10,000 kg for white wine grape types and around 7,000 for red wine grape types. Since the region is small, the lowest number of vines that can be planted is 2,000 vines.
All older vintage wines have been purchased from a single collectors cellar. Pictures can be requested before shipment.
Robert Mondavi The Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon To Kalon Vineyard is made from 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot.
The story of Robert Mondavi Winery begins here, with the To Kalon Reserve. This tier represents the pinnacle of the wines produced by the winery. The 2021 vintage offers fresh black fruit with dark chocolate, dried herbs, and hints of vanilla and violet. Flavors of black plum and blackberry with red fruit and a hint of graphite on the finish. Elegant and plush with sweet, beautifully integrated tannins and a lengthy finish.
Review:
2021 Robert Mondavi The Reserve To Kalon Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is a beautifully crafted wine with impressive intensity, depth, and a balanced structure that carries the day. From the To Kalon Vineyard in Oakville, the portion owned by Constellation, comes this blend of 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot. Pure blackberry fruit, cassis, graphite, and violet aromas leap from the glass, nuanced by fragrant, toasty new cedar wood. Full-bodied, framed by an array of plush dark black fruit notes, currants, crème de cassis, and polished tannins that are firm and elongated, with ironstone mineral accents. Dynamic in its length and texture, it is utterly intriguing, with a beckoning quality that lingers after each sip. You want to know precisely where this wine is going—demanding your attention.
- Decanter 98 Points
Boeira Douro Red is made from 35% Touriga Nacional, 35% Tinta Roriz and 30% Touriga Franca.
Deep ruby color with purple hints. Aromas of red and black fruits, toasty notes and dark chocolate. Smooth on the palate with good structure and excellent mouthfeel. Fresh, with well integrated tannins bringing elegance and a gastronomic profile to the wine. Very well balanced. Boeira Douro DOC Red from the Douro Valley is the result of a careful blend of different varieties from the Douro. After fermentation the wine was left in contact with its lees until bottling in order to develop complexity and richness.
Pair with pork roast stuffed with prunes and apricots, grilled meats, marinated leg of lamb, chicken curry, pasta with beef or pork ragout, vegetable timbale with roasted tomatoes and grilled almonds. A very “friendly” food wine.