With vineyards that are 2,500 feet above sea level a shorter growing season, extremely diverse soils, and the perpetual risk of frosty springs in the spring. Ribera del Duero, in northwestern Spain, may not appear like a great place to cultivate grapes. However, this region produces an exquisitely concentrated, delicious and intensely hued red and white wines.
The huge temperature difference between summer’s hot days and cool nights, and the sun’s high altitude and dryness provide perfect conditions for the cultivation of grapes.
A few wineries, such as the famous Vega Sicilia, have been producing top-quality red wines from Ribera of Duero for years however it wasn’t until the beginning of the 2000s that the area exploded with new vineyards and was dubbed “the modern red wine miracle of northern Spain,” according to The World Atlas of Wine.
The grape that brought the fame of the region can be described as Tinto Fino (also called Tinta del Pais) which is the Rioja-based local version of Tempranillo.
Dominio de Pingus is established in the late 1990s by the entrepreneur and visionary Danish vintner Peter Sisseck. After his arrival to the area in 1993, he spotted the potential of the old bush-vines still being grown within Ribera of Duero. Within a short time, Peter was able to produce wines that were among the most sought-after around the globe.
In the year 2006 Peter started an exciting new venture that he co-operated with the oldest growers in the region. He helped them transition their vineyards to biodynamic and organic farming, reduce the yields and also produce more fruit. The result is Ps PSI (named in honor of his 23rd initial letter in the Greek alphabet) A wine that has Ribera del Duero in its DNA.
Dominio de Pingus, Ribera del Duero – PSI 2009
Producer: Bodegas y Vinedos Alnardo SL, for Dominio de Pingus
Region: Ribera del Duero
Grapes: 100% Tinto Fino (Tempranillo)
Alc: 13.5%
Serving: Decant between 1 and 2 hours.
Deep, vibrant ruby with strong aromas The Ps PSI 2009 is a pleasure to take in from the first whiff. The dark cherry aroma, the plum, and mineral aromas fill your nose and open your palate.
As you swirl the wine around your mouth, a vibrant acidity and supple but firm tannins immediately create a standing. They add a nice structure to the fruity flavors that explode when you put them in your mouth.
The deep dark fruit and minerality you smelt on the nose are intensified and follow by flavors of violet, vanilla, and a hint of tobacco. The wine is lively and lively. It is fresh, vibrant, and energetic. The mouth is warm and tingly.
These grapes enjoyed prolonged, gentle macerations, before sitting in a mix of small and large oak tanks and cement tanks, with almost no exposure to wood. It’s not surprising that the Ps PSI offers such a great richness and flavor, while clinging for its moderate-plus weight.
Food-wise, flexibility is PSI’s mainstay. It can be served with just about everything. To honor its roots I’ve served it with orecchiette paired with chickpeas, spinach, and pimenton which is a dish brimming with the exotic and spicy flavor.
Peter Sisseck has said that his aim when he came up with Ps PSI Ps PSI, was to reflect the soul of the region through his wines. It is evident that he done this successfully. We are offered a wine that is remarkable in its quality, depth and clarity and, when tasted will want an indefinite place inside your home cellar.
