Tempranillo Peludo is a variant of the more common Tempranillo grape, primarily used in wine production. Endemic to Spain, it’s a noble, black-skinned grape that's noted for its extraordinary capability of retaining a balanced sugar to acid ratio, even in hot climates, which is fittingly perfect for the Spanish terrain.
The sobriquet 'Peludo' translates to 'hairy' in English, a name derived from the grape's distinguishing feature of having a hairy underside on its leaves. Beyond this curious feature, the Tempranillo Peludo grape distinguishes itself from its sibling varieties through its thick skin and smaller berry size, factors that impact the concentration and complexities in the wine it produces.
In terms of viticulture, the Tempranillo Peludo grape tends to bud late, reducing the risk of spring frost damage. However, this 'hairy' variety is more sensitive to disease and fungus, making it a more challenging grape to cultivate compared to the standard Tempranillo variant.
The Tempranillo Peludo varietal contributes to medium-bodied wines that have a deep, ruby colour. It is highly valued for its high tannin content, intrinsically bestowing upon its wine a robust and assertive character. It imparts complex flavours, with a predominate taste of ripe red fruit, often layered with hints of tobacco, herbs and vanilla, especially when aged in oak barrels.
Although the Tempranillo Peludo grape is not as globally recognised as its more common counterpart, it represents a significant part of Spain's traditional viticulture. It forms the backbone of many prestigious Spanish blends, particularly in the Rioja and Ribera del Duero wine regions. Its unique offering of intense flavours, balanced acidity, and potential for ageing, makes the Tempranillo Peludo grape an essential component in crafting some of Spain’s finest red wines.
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