Mas Que Vinos ‘Ercavio Viñas de Meseta’ Tempranillo, Castilla-La Mancha, Spain 2022

Mas Que Vinos is the project of three friends—Alexandra Schmedes, Gonzalo Rodríguez, and May García—who set out to revive the historic vineyards of the Meseta and honor the region’s traditional grape varieties. Their focus is on old-vine Cencibel, the local clone of Tempranillo, grown organically in one of Spain’s most challenging, windswept high-plateau climates. ‘Ercavio Viñas de Meseta’ is their benchmark Tempranillo: expressive, structured, and deeply tied to the rugged landscape from which it comes.

WINEMAKERS: Alexandra Schmedes, Gonzalo Rodríguez & May García

FARMING: Sustainable

VARIETY: 100% Cencibel (Tempranillo)

TERROIR: Sourced from bush- and trellised vines averaging 50 years old, planted at 750–800 meters on limestone and clay soils. Cencibel—smaller-berried and thicker-skinned than classic Tempranillo—thrives in the Meseta’s extreme climate and persistent winds, producing concentrated, flavorful fruit with natural tension.

VINIFICATION: Fermented in stainless steel for freshness and purity. Malolactic fermentation takes place in traditional clay amphorae (tinajas).

AGING: Aged 5–8 months in a mix of French and American oak barrels to bring subtle spice and integrate tannins.

TASTING NOTES: Aromas of black cherry, plum, and blueberry mingle with notes of cedar, vanilla, licorice, and espresso. Medium-bodied yet dense, the palate shows ripe black fruit, well-integrated acidity, and supple tannins wrapped in a long, velvety finish. Approachable but layered—classic Cencibel expression.

FOOD PAIRINGS: Ideal with grilled meats, roasted lamb, paella, manchego cheese, or hearty vegetable stews.

SCORES: 90 pts – Wine Advocate