Bernabeleva 'Arroyo del Tórtolas' Vinos de Madrid Garnacha 2022

Winemaking

Bodegas Bernabeleva represents a thoughtful approach to winemaking in Madrid's continental climate, prioritizing the expression of local Garnacha through minimal intervention and careful vineyard management. The estate focuses on capturing the delicate balance between fruit purity and the mineral, herbaceous character that defines quality winemaking in this underappreciated region.

Tasting Notes

Arroyo del Tórtolas opens with bright, lifted aromas of red cherry and strawberry, followed by white pepper spice and hints of dried Mediterranean herbs—the signature of Madrid's cool-climate Garnacha. On the palate, the wine is elegantly structured with silky tannins and a medium body that feels refined rather than heavy, with flavors echoing the aromatics alongside subtle mineral notes that add complexity. The finish is clean and refreshing, trailing off with a pleasant spicy character that lingers without heaviness.

Producer

Bodegas Bernabeleva is a small, quality-focused estate working within the Vinos de Madrid appellation, a region that has quietly developed a reputation for serious Garnacha in recent years. The winery prioritizes sustainable vineyard practices and traditional winemaking methods that allow the distinctive character of Madrid's high-altitude vineyards to shine through.

Terroir

Vinos de Madrid sits on the high plateau of central Spain, where continental conditions—hot days and cool nights—create ideal ripening conditions for Garnacha while preserving acidity and freshness. The region's elevation and diurnal temperature swing produce wines of unusual elegance for the varietal, with mineral-driven profiles shaped by the clay and limestone soils characteristic of this corner of Castilla.

Food Pairings

Serve this alongside pan-seared duck breast with a cherry gastrique, where the wine's silky tannins and red fruit will echo the rich sauce without overwhelming the delicate meat. It's equally at home with a casual Spanish-style lamb meatball in a light tomato sauce, or with aged Manchego cheese and cured jamón for a regional pairing that celebrates Madrid's culinary traditions.