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Wine Description
The Story
A tribute to Jean Leon's hometown of Santander, the starting point for a life marked by extraordinary success.
Situated at 275 meters, the 10-hectare Palau vineyard is divided into two areas with different soil characteristics that are perfect for growing Merlot. The moderately deep, yellowish brown soil is well-drained, medium to moderately fine in texture, and does not contain stones. Organic matter content is very low, and calcium carbonate and active limestone levels are moderate. The water holding capacity is very high.
Jean Leon wines were precursors of what we now call Single Vineyard Wines (Vi de Finca in Catalan). This designation, issued by the Catalan government, guarantees that the wine originates in a specific vineyard and displays a unique personality born from the interplay of the soil, the vines, the microclimate and the work carried out in the vineyard.
Wine Information
Grape varieties: Merlot
Date grapes picked: Merlot (10-11 September, 2007)
Vine age: Planted in 1991
Surface area: 10 ha, Vinya Palau
Soil characteristics: In this vineyard, the merlot variety grows in two different types of soil: one consists of calcareous clay and the other is sandy with high gravel content.
Harvest: Manual
Fermentation: Alcoholic fermentation at a controlled temperature of 26ºC in stainless steel vats. After 16 days of fermentation it begins the aging in barrel.
Ageing: Aged in French oak barrels for 12 months with malolactic fermentation. Followed by bottle aging for a period of at least six months.
Bottled: July 15, 2009
Alcohol: 14%
Tasting notes: Ruby red color of medium to deep opacity. Soft aromas of red fruit on the nose (plums, blackberries and blueberries). The oak barrels impart gentle nuances of toast and spices (eucalyptus and clove) during the aging. Fresh upon entry, evolving gradually across the palate, creamy with round, sweet tannins and a long finish.
Serving suggestions: Ideal with poultry like duck magret served in a red berry sauce. Also pairs well with white fish like cod.
Awards: 95 points, Semana Vitivinícola 2013 (Spain); 90 points, Peñín 2011 (Spain)