2023 CEPA 21

The vineyards of Bodegas Cepa 21 are one of its greatest assets. Situated at an altitude between 750 and 900 meters above sea level, they face north. Both factors ensure that the grapes ripen gradually, giving them complexity and freshness. The project owns 50 hectares of vineyards on soils of silty sand, clay, or limestone, most located very close to the winery and planted with the clone of the area's centuries-old vineyards (the purest Tempranillo from the Ribera del Duero). The winery is equipped with fully furnished facilities, consisting of a tasting room with a magnificent view of the barrel room, a terrace that serves as a true vantage point over a sea of vineyards, and a hall with a spectacular window that connects the modernity of the complex with the tradition of the vineyard; Cepa 21 is pure minimalism and efficiency. Read more in the tab: Winery

Also highly relevant is the unique position, because years ago Jose Moro already realized that with the current climate challenges (read: global warming), the vineyards located in the north of the Ribera del Duero are the future, and that is now paying off. All CEPA21 wines have more freshness and elegance than the southern vineyards.

The vineyards for the CEPA 21 (Crianza) are located east of the bodega in Pesquera del Duero in top terroir at an altitude of approximately 800 meters above sea level and are planted with the finest clone of Tinto Fino. The wine is aged for 14 months in 85% new French barriques and 15% in American oak. This results in an elegant wine with a beautiful ruby red color, a nose of blackberries, black cherry, strawberry, pepper, and incense, and still quite powerful and fruity (cassis) on the palate. Very long finish with oak and plenty of vanilla. Striking freshness. In addition to the CEPA 21, there is also the Cepa Hito, which is truly a hit. Fruitier and with less aging potential than this big brother, but both wines offer unparalleled beauty in terms of price-quality ratio. Cepa 21 is widely regarded as one of the most promising new developments in Ribera del Duero.

The wine consistently scores in the Parker and Penin 90+ categories. CEPA 21 is widely regarded as one of the most promising new developments in Ribera del Duero. In Perswijn, CEPA 21 was voted one of the best wines from the Ribera and received the Select Wine designation, and in Wine Spectator's annual review, the wine ranks among the TOP 100 best wines (worldwide).

1. Grilled sirloin steak with rosemary and garlic
The structure of the sirloin pairs perfectly with the powerful yet elegant tannins of the wine. Rosemary and garlic accentuate the earthy and spicy notes in the wine, while the meat provides sufficient body to prevent the wine from dominating.

2. Pasta with ground beef, tomato, and grated aged cheese
An accessible classic in which the savoriness of the minced meat and the umami of tomato and cheese blend beautifully with the full, fruity character of the wine. The acidity in the sauce complements the fresh core of the wine.

3. Chicken or beef stew with bell pepper, onion, and bay leaf
Slow-cooked dishes like a stew bring depth and comfort. The warm flavors of bell pepper and onion are complemented by the spicy notes in the wine, while the braised meat pairs beautifully with the velvety texture.

4. Roasted eggplant with tomato, lentils, and cumin
A vegetarian option with a firm, meaty texture. The earthy flavors of eggplant and lentils pair well with the ripe fruit and spiciness of the wine. Cumin adds an oriental touch that works surprisingly well with Tempranillo.

5. Lamb chops with thyme and lemon zest
Lamb has a distinct flavor that holds up well alongside the complexity of the Cepa 21. Thyme and lemon zest bring freshness and spiciness that are beautifully reflected in the wine's aroma.

6. Roasted mushrooms with garlic and balsamic vinegar
Mushrooms bring an umami-rich depth that complements the wine well. The balsamic provides a light sweet-sour accent that matches the wine's fruity profile, and the garlic underscores the spiciness.

FUN FACT: In the 'Attachments' tab, you will find the official factsheet for this fine wine. We will automatically send this 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, almost next to the A16, with ample parking. Click here for our address. Need advice on finding the ideal wine for your dish? Ask our Sommelier for advice – free for our customers.