2019 Raul Pérez Los Arrotos del Pendón Prieto Picudo

History of the winery and owners

Raúl Pérez is one of Spain's most celebrated winemakers. Originally based in Bierzo, he expanded his focus to include forgotten grapes and powerful terroirs. With projects in various regions, he works exclusively with small producers, old vines, and hand-selected. His philosophy is based on minimal intervention, respect for the microclimate, and attention to local grape varieties. With Los Arrotos del Pendón Prieto Picudo, he gives this rare variety a new lease of life.

Region of Castilla y León: climate and location

This wine comes from Tierra de León, south of the city of León, at an altitude of around 800 to 850 meters. The continental climate features cold winters, hot summers, and significant day-night variations. The soil consists of rocky clay, limestone, and gravel, ideal for a concentrated, expressive Prieto Picudo. The altitude and soil conditions contribute to bright acidity, intense aromas, and a firm structure.

Prieto Picudo grape and manual harvest

Prieto Picudo is an indigenous blue grape variety with small, dark blue bunches and a skin-to-juice ratio that produces deep color and fresh fruit. The grapes come from old vines and are selected and harvested entirely by hand. Harvest times are carefully determined to ensure the perfect balance between ripeness and acidity.

Vinification and maturation

After harvest, fermentation takes place in concrete tanks at a controlled temperature. Maceration lasts approximately two weeks to extract color, tannins, and aromas. This is followed by 12 to 14 months of aging in used French and American oak barrels, which gives the wine structure and refinement without excessive wood influence. The wine then rests briefly in the bottle for optimal harmony.

Color, odor and flavor profile

This Prieto Picudo has an intense ruby red color with purple highlights. The nose is dominated by ripe red berries such as cherry and raspberry, combined with licorice, honeyed spiciness, a hint of laurel, and subtle toasted oak notes. A complex, aromatic experience.

On the palate, the wine is dry, with firm yet ripe tannins and fresh acidity. It displays ripe red fruit, a light spice, and an elegant minerality. The body is medium to full, and the finish is long and layered, with balanced fruit and oak notes. A refined wine for the serious connoisseur.

Why you should choose Los Arrotos del Pendón Prieto Picudo 2019

This wine is a rare example of Prieto Picudo, enhanced by Raúl Pérez's unique, terroir-focused approach. It offers both intensity and finesse, with ripe fruit, penetrating structure, and gastronomic potential. Ideal for wine lovers seeking original, characterful wines and for sommeliers seeking a fine alternative.

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In the "Attachments" tab, you'll find the official fact sheet for this fine wine. We'll automatically send it to you when you order. 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 checkout. We're located in Dordrecht, right next to the A16 motorway, with ample parking. Click here for our address .

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Wine and food suggestions

1. Roast venison steak with rosemary and black pepper
Firm tannins and ripe red fruit are a perfect match with the powerful meat and aromatic herbs.

2. Mushroom stew with thyme and veal stock
The earthy notes and deep umami of the mushrooms complement the complexity and structure of the wine beautifully.

3. Grilled quail with plum compote and wild rice
The sweet and fruity notes of the compote are elegantly supported by the ripe fruit and spiciness of the wine.

4. Pasta with truffle cream sauce and Parmesan cheese
The creamy sauce and umami-rich cheese temper the tannins and bring out the spicy aromas.

5. Chili con carne with dark chocolate and chipotle
The warm spices and subtle bitterness are balanced by the fruity character and length of the wine.

6. Grilled eggplant with tomato, garlic and basil
The roasted vegetable flavors harmonize with the savory texture and spicy note of this Prieto Picudo.