3. CÉSAR PRÍNCIPE

Producer: Bodegas César Principe
Importer:Smith and Whelan Wines Ltd.
DO: Cigales
RRPP: € 30 - € 35
Stockists: Ballymaloe Shop, Co. Cork; Cheers, Delgany

César Principe’s old vineyards in Fuensaldanya , Valladolid were planted according to the local tradition, with a mixture of red Tempranillo and white Verdejo vines. This was done because the vineyards of Cigales are best known for their rosados, a blend of the two. The present wine- maker, Ignacio Principe began making red wines from 100% temperanillo grapes in the year 2000, with impressive results. This powerful and expressive red is fast developing something of a cult status.