2020 Abadia Retuerta Petit Verdot

Abadia Retuerta and the historical background of the estate

Abadia Retuerta is one of the most distinctive estates in Castilla y León. Located in Sardón de Duero, the winery sits on a vast estate where viticulture is just one aspect of a much larger whole. The estate includes a former abbey and granary, which now serve as a luxury hotel. A major project to restore the old vineyards began in 1988. The modern bodega, which now forms the heart of the winery, was built in 1996. Since then, Abadia Retuerta has become a benchmark in the region.

What makes the estate special is that it has its own Protected Designation of Origin. DO Abadía de Retuerta was officially recognized in 2022 within the framework of the Pago classification. This status emphasizes the unique location and the consistent quality of the wines. Led by Bordeaux-trained winemaker Dr. Ángel Anocibar, the technical team works with a strong scientific approach. The winery's style is often described as modern and cosmopolitan, with wines that combine richness and precision.

The location in Sardón de Duero and the terroir

Sardón de Duero lies just outside the traditional boundaries of Ribera del Duero, but shares many of the same characteristics. The vineyards benefit from warm summer days and cool nights. These temperature differences help the grapes develop their aromas without losing their freshness. The soils consist of sand, clay, and limestone, a combination that gives Petit Verdot structure and lends the wine its characteristic intensity.

The high altitude and proximity of the Duero River create a microclimate ideal for late-ripening grape varieties. Petit Verdot thrives here thanks to the long, warm autumns that allow the grapes to fully ripen. The result is a wine that possesses both power and finesse, clearly showcasing the potential of this location.

Petit Verdot on Spanish soil

Petit Verdot is a grape known for its deep color, high tannins, and pronounced spice. The variety ripens late and therefore doesn't always find ideal conditions. In Sardón de Duero, however, Abadia Retuerta masters this challenge. The grapes are given ample time to fully ripen, giving the wine a balanced structure with a rich aromatic palette.

The Petit Verdot is one of the estate's most exceptional wines. While most wines from the region focus on Tempranillo, this cuvée demonstrates how an international grape variety can truly shine in the Spanish highlands. The 2020 vintage builds on previous successful years and is among the wines with remarkable aging potential.

Harvest and vinification of the 2020

For Petit Verdot, Abadia Retuerta selects only the finest fruit from plots where the grapes ripen optimally. The grapes are carefully harvested and brought directly to the modern wine cellar. Fermentation is controlled to preserve the aromatic complexity. The wine is then aged in new oak barrels, mostly French and a smaller portion American. This combination gives the wine both finesse and a subtle sweetness from the oak.

The use of new oak beautifully complements the Petit Verdot's strength. The structure remains firm, but the tannins are rounded out into a supple texture. Maturation also contributes aromas of cedar, vanilla, and spice often associated with this wine. The 2020 has a long maturation period ahead of it and can further develop its flavor complexity in the cellar.

Color, aroma and taste of the Petit Verdot 2020

The 2020 Petit Verdot has a deep, inky color typical of this grape variety. On the nose, the wine reveals notes of spice, camphor, and earthy nuances. Aromas of black fruit, vanilla, and bay leaf emerge, framed by oaky notes. This combination gives the wine a layered bouquet that slowly unfolds in the glass.

The wine is intense and powerful on the palate. Its structure is firm with distinct yet beautifully integrated tannins. The wine has a full body and lively tension. The finish combines spicy and fruity notes in a long, lingering finish. Thanks to the balance of ripe fruit aromas and crisp acidity, the wine can develop beautifully and has a drinking window that extends well into the next decade.

The power and style of this special cuvée

Compared to many other wines from Castilla y León, the Petit Verdot stands out for its intensity and international style. It's a wine that offers both power and nuance, making it appealing to connoisseurs seeking depth and complexity. The 2020 builds on the house's clear signature: richness, structure, and a high degree of precision in aging. This makes it a wine that pairs perfectly with gourmet dishes and, thanks to its rich tannins, provides a strong backbone for further bottle aging.

Would you like to order Abadia Retuerta wines online?

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you these when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway with ample parking. Click here for our address. You can read full wine reviews from publications like Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator.

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Wine and food pairings

Grilled bavette with thyme and garlic is a perfect pairing. The wine's robust structure complements the meat beautifully. A mushroom ragout with creamy polenta complements the wine's earthy notes beautifully. Lamb stew with tomato and bay leaf brings out the spiciness of the Petit Verdot. Duck breast with a red berry sauce complements the wine's freshness and dark fruit. A slow-cooked oxtail with carrot and cloves complements the full body and spicy finish beautifully.