Taruguín Ep.1 – When friendship challenges the legend of Ribera del Duero with the spirit of a hundred-year-old vine

In the renowned Ribera del Duero wine region, known for its bold and powerful wines, what happens when two friends challenge convention with their own distinct vision? Today, Purple Vino introduces you to Taruguín, a wine project born from the friendship and passion of Julio, a local from San Esteban de Gormaz, and Nacho, a renowned winemaker from Demencia Winery. Their shared goal is to “create wines that reflect the essence of the land of Soria, in a fresher and more elegant style.”

Forgotten Treasure: The Pre-phylloxera Vine of Soria

At the heart of Taruguín lies a historic vineyard in the province of Soria, one of the few in Europe where many vines survived the 19th-century phylloxera scourge. The area's sandy soils and isolation allow these ancient vines, known as "pre-phylloxera vines," some of which are over 120 years old, to take root and grow independently of the roots of American grape varieties. These deep roots, searching for food, give the grapes their rich, complex flavors and inimitable character.

Ancient vineyards in Soria, home to pre-phylloxera vines.

A Winemaker's Dream: The 2020 Vintage

2020 was what winemakers called a “dream vintage.” The year-round climate was ideal, producing moderate yields and wines that were not too high in alcohol but full of depth. This was especially true for the Tinto Fino grape, the main ingredient in Taruguín wines, which gave the wines their unique character and high demand.

Wine Cellar Philosophy: Minimal Interference

Taruguín adheres to the philosophy of “Minimal Intervention” in winemaking. Spontaneous fermentation takes place naturally with yeast on the grape skins, without the addition of synthetic yeasts or sulfur throughout the process, ensuring that every bottle of wine is the purest reflection of the grapes and the Soria soil.

Ripe grapes in Soria, ready for harvest.

Ribera del Duero's Defiance of Conventions

What makes the Taruguín project even more interesting is the challenge it presents within the Ribera del Duero wine region, which is typically characterized by a strong and powerful style. Julio and Nacho create wines that focus on freshness and balance, allowing the complex flavors of the terroir to be clearly expressed, using quality grapes from the Pre-phylloxera vineyards in Soria to create a unique drinking experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are Phylloxera and Pre-phylloxera?

A: Phylloxera is a small grapevine aphid that swept through Europe in the late 19th century. It ate the roots of European grapevines, killing them and destroying wineries across most of the continent. Pre-phylloxera refers to “original grapevines” that survived the plague without grafting, and are very rare in only a few areas of the world, such as Soria.

Q2: How does the style of Taruguín wine differ from typical Ribera del Duero?

A: While traditional Ribera del Duero emphasizes intensity and power, Taruguín aims to create wines in a style that emphasizes freshness, elegance and balance, allowing the complex flavors of the terroir to be clearly expressed.

Q3: What grape variety is the main ingredient in “Tinto Fino” wine?

A: Tinto Fino is the name given to the Tempranillo grape variety from the Ribera del Duero region, Spain's king of red grapes. The local name reflects the deep connection between the wine and the region.

Q4: How can I buy Taruguín wine in Thailand?

A: You can order Taruguín wines directly through the website of Purple Vino, the official importer, with details of each wine series being presented in future episodes.

Winter landscape of ancient vineyards in Soria.

Lessons from Taruguín

PROJECT Taruguín is not just about producing delicious wines, they also reflect a commitment and innovative approach to Spanish winemaking. By fusing tradition and innovation, they affirm that wine can be more than just a drink—it tells a story of friendship, passion, and pioneering spirits in the world of wine.

Taruguín not only challenges the legacy of Ribera del Duero, but also creates inspiring content for a new generation of winemakers, following the tradition but bringing it to life with unique creations, paving the way for a new path for wines truly contemporary and in harmony with local culture.