Wine Details
Vintage: 2021
Alcohol: 13.9%
pH: 3.65
TA: 6.3 g/L
Residual Sugar: 0.5 g/L (Dry)
Production: 395 cases
Bottle Price: $38
2021 Teddy Bear Tempranillo
Earthy, Food-Friendly, and Balanced
Winemaking
Harvest Date: October 10, 2021
Barrel Aging: 16 months
Oak: 40% new American oak, 60% neutral
Toast Level: Medium
Fermentation: Traditional fermentation, 28 days on skins
Bottling Date: February 8, 2023
Tasting Notes
Appearance
Medium ruby-garnet with brick-orange edges. Medium+ body with graceful legs reflecting the wine's balanced structure.
Nose
Aromatic with red cherry, strawberry, and dried cranberry. Notes of leather, tobacco leaf, and vanilla from American oak aging. Hints of dried herbs, cedar, sweet spice, and earthy undertones of dried leaves and forest floor.
Palate
Medium-bodied with soft, rounded tannins and bright acidity. Flavors of red cherry, pomegranate, and plum are complemented by earthy notes of leather, tobacco, and dried herbs. Mid-palate reveals vanilla, coconut, and sweet spice from oak with hints of cola and tea.
Finish
Medium to long with lingering red fruit and savory notes. Hints of leather, spice, and subtle oak persist. This vintage showcases Tempranillo's food-friendly nature with excellent balance between fruit, earth, and oak.
Food Pairing
This versatile Tempranillo pairs beautifully with:
Spanish Classics
Paella, chorizo, Manchego cheese, jamón ibérico, or patatas bravas
Grilled & Roasted
Lamb chops, roasted pork loin, grilled vegetables, or herb-crusted chicken
Comfort Food
Pasta with meat sauce, pizza, burgers with aged cheddar, or mushroom risotto
Vintage Notes
The 2021 vintage in Dry Creek Valley provided excellent conditions for Tempranillo. Moderate temperatures and warm days allowed for full flavor development while cool nights preserved acidity. The Clone 2A vines produced small clusters with concentrated flavors and balanced tannins. American oak aging adds traditional character reminiscent of Spanish Rioja while showcasing the unique terroir of California.
Drinking Window
Peak: 2024-2029
Drinking beautifully now and will continue to develop complexity through 2031.
Purchase This Wine
Available for purchase directly from Hillside Estate Winery
Visit Winery Website →