CÉSAR PRÍNCIPE
OLD VINE TEMPRANILLO • CIGALES
"Nobility and power: an ode to Tempranillo from centennial vines where the strength of the earth merges with an aristocratic and eternal aging."
The Legacy of Centennial Vines
César Príncipe represents the maximum expression of the D.O. Cigales. Made from vines between 70 and 100 years old, this wine extracts the essence of a unique gravelly subsoil. Its deep roots achieve a natural balance and a concentration of polyphenols that only a century can provide, consolidating it as an author's red wine of imposing structure and rustic elegance.
1. Identity Profile
- Winery: César Príncipe.
- Origin: Cigales, Valladolid, Spain.
- Varietal: 100% Tempranillo (Tinto Fino).
- Aging: 14 months in French and American oak.
- Style: Author's Red Wine / Majestic Power.
- Volume: 750 ml | Vintage 2021.
2. Sommelier's Notes
Appearance: Very intense cherry red, almost opaque with violet rims. It presents a dense tear that denotes its great concentration and extract.
Nose: Amazing complexity. Aromas of very ripe black fruit, pure cocoa, licorice, and sweet spices stand out on a mineral and toasted background of great elegance.
Palate: Powerful, fleshy, and with a majestic authority. Imposing structure supported by masterfully polished noble tannins. The finish is silky and culminates in an eternal and persistent aftertaste.
3. Wine Architecture
BODY (SUMPTUOUS) [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
TANNINS (NOBLE) [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
FRUIT COMPLEXITY [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
AGING POTENTIAL [ 15+ YEARS ]
4. Enjoyment Guide
Regional Pairing: Its robustness demands intensely flavored dishes: grilled ribeye, Castilian roasted suckling lamb, oxtail, or very aged sheep cheeses.
Evolution: It is recommended to decant at least **45 minutes** before serving to allow its aromatic complexity to be fully released.
Serving: Enjoy between **16°C and 18°C**. Use a large format glass (Bordeaux type) to appreciate its amplitude.
5. Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Tempranillo from Cigales and other regions?
In Cigales, Tempranillo benefits from an extreme continental climate and gravelly soils. César Príncipe uses nearly century-old vines, which provides superior minerality and tannic concentration, distinguishing it by a more structured nobility than that of its neighbors in Ribera.
What aging potential does César Príncipe 2021 have?
Thanks to its great natural acidity and polyphenol load from old vines, this wine is a collector's gem with an aging potential of over 15 years, evolving towards tertiary notes of leather and truffle.