Pago de Carraovejas, Ribera del Duero 1076 Milsetentayseis, 2021

An unpronounceable name, but an extraordinarily wonderful wine. This is a special project by the winemaker of top Ribera del Duero estate, Pago de Carraovejas, to revive some tiny, old vineyards, which are the very highest in the region - at 1,076 metres elevation (1,076 is the meaning of the name Milsetentayseis). Thanks to the altitude and vine age (up to nearly a century old), the wine has fabulous fruit concentration and freshness, and an amazing, super-silky texture, all of which arise from the intensely sunny days yet decidedly chilly nights through the growing season. Its beautiful balance suggests that it could be cellared for several years, however its fabulous silkiness means that there is nothing to stop you tucking in straight away!