The Tempranillo vineyards of Bodegas Hornillos Ballesteros are located in the villages of Anguix and Roa at 2,644 feet in the Burgos subregion of the Ribera del Duero DO. In Anguix, the vines are 75 years old and planted in loamy soil composed of 40% sand, 40% fine gravel and 20% thin clay and produces small, concentrated berries. Yields are a mere 2.2 lbs. per vine and the grapes have a high skin-to-juice ratio, well balanced and ripe tannins and rich, intense flavors. In Roa, the vines are an average of 35 years old and planted in sand and limestone with small particles of clay. Severe pruning during the growing season and meticulous vineyard practices produce concentrated, aromatic fruit. The subregion sits at a higher elevation than its famous western cousins, Rueda and Toro, which means cooler temperatures. Annual rainfall averages about 18.6 inches and the continental climate allows a long growing season.
Winemakers and owners Miguel Hornillos and Javier Ballesteros personify the “garagiste” mentality; they practice biodynamics, employ methodical and stringent grape selection and produce miniscule amount of terroir-driven, authentic wines.
