Field Blend Tradición 2023 | Viñas del Cénit | Zamora

Field Blend Tradición by Viñas del Cenit (2023)

This wine is a striking example of traditional winemaking from the Tierra del Vino de Zamora appellation in Castilla y León, Spain. Produced by Viñas del Cenit, the 2023 vintage is classified as a rosé, though it is technically a clarete made through the co-fermentation of red and white grape varieties.

The vineyards are located in Villanueva de Campeán, planted on fluvial sands and gravels. The grapes come from old vines aged between 80 and 180 years, grown on their own roots (pie franco). This field blend features Tempranillo and Garnacha co-planted with white varieties including Doña Blanca and Palomino Fino, along with other unspecified white grapes, all growing in the same parcel.

The winemaking process is defined by this ancient method of co-fermentation, where red and white grapes are fermented together to create a traditional Zamoran clarete. The wine undergoes aging for six months in used French oak barrels. This technique results in a pale brick-red color, characteristic of the style.

Critically, the wine has received significant recognition from Guía Peñín, which awarded it 92 points. This score highlights the quality and authenticity of this historical production method.

Overall, Field Blend Tradición offers a unique glimpse into the viticultural heritage of Zamora. By blending red and white varieties in the vineyard and fermenting them together, Viñas del Cenit produces a wine that is distinct from modern rosés or standard reds. The old vines contribute depth and complexity, while the six-month maturation in used French oak adds subtle structure without overpowering the fruit. It is a sophisticated, traditional expression of the region’s terroir, appealing to those interested in historical winemaking techniques and complex, aromatic profiles derived from mixed varietal fermentation.