2023 Telmo Rodriguez Pegaso Arrebatacapas

Winery

Pegaso is the project of Compañía de Vinos Telmo Rodríguez in the Sierra de Gredos. Here, Telmo Rodríguez works with Pablo Eguzkiza on the restoration of historic Garnacha vineyards that were undervalued for years. The focus is on terroir, old vines, and the purest possible expression of the vineyard. The various Pegaso cuvées demonstrate how strongly soil, altitude, and exposure can influence the character of Garnacha. Arrebatacapas is one of the estate's most exceptional wines and is produced in very limited quantities. You can find more information about this winery in the Winery tab.

Origin and terroir

Arrebatacapas comes from a steep vineyard near Cebreros in the Sierra de Gredos, situated at an altitude of approximately 1,050 to 1,100 meters. The soil consists of shallow slate layers that provide tension, minerality, and a distinct character. The vineyard is divided into several plots planted in 1932, 1950, and 1953. Despite the southern exposure, the high altitude ensures cooling and preserves freshness. The combination of old vines, altitude, and poor soils yields grapes with exceptional concentration and precision.

Grapes and vineyard management

The wine is made primarily from Garnacha sourced from old vines largely planted on Rupestris de Lot rootstocks. The low yields ensure a natural concentration of aromas and flavor. Since 2023, horses have been used in the vineyard again. This is not only due to the steep slopes, but also to combat soil compaction, limit erosion, and improve soil structure. All work is carried out with great care to preserve the unique character of the vineyard.

Vinification and aging

The grapes are carefully selected and fermented with indigenous yeasts. Various materials are used for vinification, including traditional clay tinajas, stainless steel tanks, and small plastic vats. This combination allows for very precise processing of each batch. After fermentation, the wine ages in used oak barrels. During this period, the wine undergoes sur lie aging, which provides extra depth and refinement without masking the pure character of the Garnacha.

Color, smell and taste

The wine has a strikingly light ruby red color that immediately hints at its elegant style. On the nose, red berries, cherries, and wild strawberries dominate, complemented by floral notes, Mediterranean herbs, and subtle mineral nuances. Additionally, accents of blood orange, vermouth, garrigue, and dried herbs are present. On the palate, the wine combines intensity with refinement. The tannins are extremely fine, the acidity lively, and the structure precise. The finish is long, energetic, and mineral, with a remarkable balance between power and elegance.

Style and character

Arrebatacapas reveals a different side of Garnacha than many enthusiasts are accustomed to. Instead of ripeness and power, finesse, tension, and transparency take center stage. Stylistically, the wine sits between the granite-driven and the more slate-driven expressions of Pegaso. The result is a wine of exceptional precision, aromatic depth, and an almost Burgundian elegance. This is a wine that impresses above all through its refinement.

Volume

The 2023 vintage is considered one of Arrebatacapas's best editions to date. The combination of altitude, old vines, and careful vinification resulted in a wine of great clarity, tension, and balance. Despite the ripeness of the fruit, the wine remains fresh and energetic. The alcohol content remains moderate, allowing the focus to lie entirely on terroir and finesse. The wine is accessible from 2026 but will develop effortlessly well into the 1930s.

Food and wine pairings

This Garnacha pairs beautifully with roasted quail, duck, Iberico pork, and veal. Dishes with mushrooms, truffle, or Mediterranean herbs also complement the wine's refined character perfectly. Thanks to its fresh acidity and elegant structure, Arrebatacapas can even be paired with hearty fish dishes such as tuna or swordfish.

Wine & Food and Discount

If available, you will find the official factsheet and additional information about this fine wine in the 'Attachments' tab. We will automatically send these to you upon ordering this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you come to collect the wine, you will often receive a nice discount. You will see your discount immediately when you select 'Pick up' on the checkout page. We are located in Dordrecht, situated almost next to the A16 with ample parking. Click here for our address.

You can read full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the ideal wine for your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grandcruwijnen customers. In the Food tab, you will find advice on what to look for for the right food and wine pairing, and a number of dish suggestions from our Sommelier.