Product Overview
Pedigree: The Mata family produced wine in many parts of Spain for four generations. After a break occasioned by the collapse of the market for Malaga, the primary product, the winery closed its doors. Now the family heritage is being resurrected in the form of Compania de inos del Atlantico with Patrick Mata and Alberto Orte at the helm. As in the past, they produce wines in many regions throughout the Iberian Peninsula. Gordo is Patrick's affectionate name for his father and the label used is a replica of one of the family labels from the 1800's. This wine is from the Campo Arriba district of the Yecla D.O. in the southeast of Spain. Yecla's altitude is greater than that of neighboring Jumilla leading to significantly lower temperatures. This is evident in the freshness and aromatic intensity of the wines. The soils are poor with low vigor and yields are a low 4.4 pounds per vine, producing smaller berries with a higher skin to juice ratio. The result is increased concentration and aroma complexity. Average temperature during the growing season from May through October is 66°F. The area receives 13 inches of rain per year and 3,893 hours of sunshine per year.
Grape Varieties: 70% Monastrell (Mourvedre in France) and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon. The vines were planted in 1970 at 2,339 feet in chalk and limestone soils. The vineyards are dry farmed.
Vinification: Harvesting takes place in the cool early morning hours. The best bunches are selected and gently crushed. Whole clusters with stems undergo maceration at a cool temperature of 59°F. Monastrell and Cabernet are fermented separately. After fermentation the skins and stems are kept together and undergo a post fermentation maceration of 7 days. Malolactic fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks. 10,000 cases were made.
Ageing: The wines are aged in two year old barrels for 3 months after which the Monastrell and Cabernet are blended. After a further month the wine is bottled.
Analysis:
Alcohol: 14%
Tasting Notes:
Color: A gorgeous deep ruby robe showing very little evolution.
Bouquet: The nose is redolent of lead pencil shavings with the faintest hint of a delightful herbaceousness.
Palate: The palate follows seamlessly from the nose adding blackberries, black raspberries and a hint of blueberries. The wine is full bodied, lush and soft. The finish is flavorful and persistent.
When to Drink: Drink now through 2025
Serving Temperature: 62°F - 64°F
Food Pairing: A bold wine for bold food; meaty stews, mild lamb curries, barbecued chicken, blue and soft cheeses. ype a description for this product here...
