2021 Bodegas Vetus Flor de Vetus

Bodegas Vetus and Artevino's Toro project

Bodegas Vetus is a project of the Artevino Group in Toro, Italy. This group, which also includes Bodegas Izadi, is known for its focus on provenance, precision, and long-term vision. With Vetus, they wanted to demonstrate that Toro can be more than just strength and alcohol, without losing the region's identity.

The Vetus vineyards are located directly surrounding the winery and form the heart of the project. The approach focuses on sustainability and biodiversity. A large portion of the plots are now organically certified, and the vineyards operate according to integrated and organic principles, with natural soil cover and minimal intervention.

The Toro wine region and its character

Toro, located in Castilla y León, is known for its continental climate with Atlantic influences. Summers are hot and dry, while winters can be harsh. Vetus's vineyards are situated at an altitude of approximately 700 to 725 meters, which ensures cooler nights and preserves acidity.

The soils consist primarily of clay and loam with sandy elements. This combination gives the wine both power and finesse. Low rainfall and high sunshine hours ensure ripe grapes, while the altitude and soil structure bring balance and tension.

Vineyards and grape variety Tinta de Toro

The 2021 Flor de Vetus comes from approximately twenty hectares of our own vineyards, planted around 1990. The vines are planted at a density of around 2,700 plants per hectare and are trained on wire. The yield is around 6,000 kilos per hectare, which contributes to concentration.

The wine is made from 100% Tinta de Toro, the local variety of Tempranillo. In Toro, this grape produces wines with deep color, ripe fruit, and firm yet ripe tannins. The grapes ripen slowly due to the altitude and climate, which enhances the aromatic complexity.

Harvest and selection in 2021

Harvesting took place manually in small 15-kilo crates. After arriving at the cellar, the grapes were carefully selected on the sorting table. This approach ensures that only healthy and optimally ripe fruit is used for Flor de Vetus.

After destemming and light crushing, alcoholic fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks. Double pigeage was used during fermentation to control the extraction of color, aroma, and tannin.

Vinification and maturation in wood

After alcoholic fermentation, the wine underwent malolactic fermentation in stainless steel tanks. The wine then matured for approximately nine months in oak barrels. A combination of French and American oak was used, each containing approximately half the total.

The barrels were made in equal parts from new and one-year-old barrels. This approach imparts structure and spice without overpowering the fruit. The wood supports the wine and contributes to its balance and drinkability.

Color, scent and taste of Flor de Vetus 2021

In the glass, the wine displays a deep cherry red color with a purple rim. The aroma is medium to intense, opening with ripe red and black fruit. Aromas of cherry, blackberry, and plum are complemented by notes of licorice, spices, and a subtle hint of coffee and caramel.

On the palate, the wine is powerful yet remarkably fresh. The mouthfeel is full and broad, with fine tannins and a clear structure. Balsamic notes and a light spiciness add depth. The finish is long, clean, and balanced, retaining fruit and freshness.

Style, balance and ageing potential

The 2021 Flor de Vetus is a textbook example of modern Toro. It has power and maturity, but is never heavy or ponderous. The combination of altitude, controlled oak aging, and fresh acidity keeps the wine accessible and well-balanced.

The wine is already pleasantly drinkable, but will continue to develop in the coming years. Within its drinking window, it will reveal additional complexity, while the fruit and structure remain beautifully balanced.

Would you like to order wines from Bodegas Vetus 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 this to you 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. https://www.grandcruwijnen.nl/bezoek-ons You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grandcruwijnen customers. https://www.grandcruwijnen.nl/sommy

Wine and food pairings with 2021 Flor de Vetus

Grilled entrecote with rosemary goes well with the powerful structure and ripe tannins of the wine.

Lamb stew with spices and tomato complements the spicy and balsamic notes.

Roasted eggplant with lentils and cumin combines beautifully with the ripe fruit and freshness.

Iberico pork cheek with a light jus enhances the juiciness and depth of the wine.

Beef stew with bay leaves and black olives complements the earthy and savoury accents.

Mature Manchego with nuts and figs works well with the structure and long finish of the wine.

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