2023 Telmo Rodriguez Matallana

The story behind Matallana

Matallana is Telmo Rodríguez and Pablo Eguzkiza's Ribera del Duero project. Their vision is to restore the region's historical value, focusing on terroir and tradition. Since 1998, old bush vines have been restored and new plots planted using traditional methods. Today, Matallana encompasses eleven vineyards spread across five villages: Sotillo de la Ribera, Roa, Fuentecén, Fuentemolinos, and Pardilla. The total area covers 21.5 hectares, of which 5 hectares contain vines over 50 years old, and 16.5 hectares are newly planted, maintaining a high planting density and adapting naturally to the surrounding environment.

terroir and grapes

Matallana's strength lies in the diversity of its terroirs. The vineyards lie between 820 and 902 meters in altitude and range from chalky soils to sand, marl, and gravel. This variety gives the wine depth and complexity. The blend consists primarily of tinto fino (Tempranillo), supplemented with small amounts of Garnacha, Bobal, and Albillo. All vineyards are organically farmed, planted in bush vines, and have a planting density of 3,800 vines per hectare. This produces grapes that express their origins in their purest form.

the 2022 harvest

The 2022 vintage was extremely warm in Ribera del Duero, with harvest starting eight days earlier than in 2021. Despite the heat and challenges, the grapes produced a wine with remarkable balance and freshness. The result is a vintage with power and concentration, but without the sluggishness that sometimes characterizes warm years. With 14.5% alcohol, a pH of 3.72, and 4.34 grams of acidity per liter, the 2022 Matallana displays ripeness and tension in perfect harmony.

vinification and maturation

The grapes were fermented separately in oak and stainless steel vats. This was followed by 14 months of aging in French oak barrels of varying ages. This traditional approach imparts structure and complexity without allowing the wood to dominate the fruit. It results in a wine that remains true to the character of Ribera del Duero: powerful, vibrant, and layered.

color, smell and taste

The 2022 Matallana has a deep ruby red color. The nose reveals aromas of ripe cherries, plums, and blackberries, complemented by violets, herbs, and a hint of mineral freshness. On the palate, the wine is powerful and intense, yet refined and elegant. The fine-grained tannins provide structure without harshness. The finish is long and harmonious, with a subtle hint of spice and earthy notes. The Wine Advocate emphasized that, despite the heat of the year, the wine is not heavy, but rather balanced and stylish, awarding it 96 points.

reviews and storage potential

The 2022 Matallana was awarded 96 points by Luis Gutiérrez (The Wine Advocate) and described as a "serious, harmonious, and balanced Ribera, a triumph over the vintage's conditions." Only 23,883 bottles were produced, emphasizing its exclusivity. The wine's aging potential is between 2025 and 2035, during which time it will further deepen and develop into a more complex whole.

Would you like to order Telmo Rodríguez 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 entrecôte with rosemary and garlic – the firm structure of the wine complements the juicy intensity of the meat.
• Leg of lamb with thyme and olive oil – the spicy and earthy notes enhance the complexity of the wine.
• Venison stew with juniper berries – the powerful and full flavours are balanced by freshness and elegance.
• Risotto with porcini mushrooms – the creamy texture is refreshed by the mineral tension of the wine.
• Grilled eggplant with thyme and olive oil – the earthy and spicy notes complement the deep fruit aromas perfectly.
• Matured Manchego or aged Comté – the nutty and salty flavours enhance the long, complex finish.