Torres : Gran Coronas 2016

In Intense Penedes Red Wine by Familia Torres

Established in the year 1870 by Jaime Torres Vendrell and his brother Miguel Torres Vendrell, Torres wine has burgeoned in just a century and a half into the most recognized wine brand of Spain, a true empire of vines built on quality. Today, the 5th generation runs 3,200 acres of estate vineyards, spread over Spain's best DOC and DO appellations, as well as California, China and Chile. The "Gran Coronas" cuvée by Familia Torres comprises a blend of Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon, grown on the family's vineyard in the DO Penedes appellation of Catalonia, Spain. This wine recalls the legacy of Miguel A. Torres, who in the 1960's introduced French grape varieties and winemaking techniques to Spain. The wine is fermented in stainless steel with two weeks of maceration on the skins. It is then aged in French oak barrels (30% new) for at least 12 months.

The 2016 vintage in Penedes was characterized by relatively dry weather conditions during the winter, followed by a normal spring and summer. September began fairly warm, then cooled down later on. Some rainfall helped the later-ripening varieties reach maturity in their fruit in time for the harvest.

The Gran Coronas 2016 by Familia Torres displays in the glass a brooding dark cherry color with garnet highlights. On the nose, it reveals intense aromas of dark fruit (like blueberries and cassis), along with a spicy touch of black pepper and some balsamic nuances. On the palate, this is a very balanced red wine with great structure and tannins tamed by time spent aging in oak.