Catherism in Castilla Leon was introduced by those pilgrims from Occitania who left France to follow the way of St James to Santiago. It is said that these Cathars had their own symbol, a cross of three arms in which were driven three large stakes. The term “Cather”, originates in the Greek, Katharois, meaning “Pure.” This origin is in turn reflected in the purity and authenticity of our wine from the privileged area of Ribera del Duero, Gumiel de Mercado, an ancient winemaking area full of subterranean cellars cut out of rock. The vines used for Cathar are planted at 829 m above sea level and are low yielding about 2.5kgs per vine. The harvest is carried out in October by hand and grapes delivered to the winery in cases of 16kg. Before entering the tanks, a rigorous manual selection separates the best quality grapes that will be used for the wines. The Cathar wines are made in modern facilities in which gravity is used during every step of the winemaking process. This ensures that the most important component, the grapes, is protected as much as possible. During fermentation, temperature is controlled through water showers. Maceration times of 16-18 days are designed to maximise the fruit expression and grapes are crushed in a low-capacity, vertical press to avoid over extraction. Post fermentation, a careful selection by tasting determines for which wine each of the tanks will be destined.
Description
100% Tempranillo, 25 years old vines from Finca de Revillalcepo. Aged 6 months french oak.
Description
100% Tempanillo, 42 yr old bush vines from Finca Carrabuenaentrada. Aged 15 months in french oak.
Description
100% Tempanillo, 42 yr old bush vines from Finca Carrabuenaentrada. The Cathar Reserva is only produced during exceptional vintages. Aged 15 months in french oak.