Peter Sisseck, the architect behind one of Spain’s most iconic wines, Pingus, has hit the mark once again with the tantalising new 2016 release of Flor de Pingus.
For the uninitiated, Flor de Pingus is produced from 18 prize vineyard sites in the La Horra zone of Ribera del Duero, and is one of the most remarkable expressions of the Tempranillo grape to be found anywhere in Spain. It has the structure, purity and energy to allow it to age for well over 20 years and stylistically will draw many comparisons with some of the leading Cru Classé Bordeaux.
The 2016 will approach its drinking plateau from around 2022 but cellar gracefully for a further 10-15 years. (Scroll down for further details about Peter Sisseck and the 2016 vintage)
Our annual allocation is rarely enough to satisfy demand. This year we have just 50 cases (12x75cl) and 30cs of magnums (3x150cl) so if interested in this sensational wine, do let us know as soon as possible.
*Shipping and available for delivery in February 2019.
Peter Sisseck and the birth of Pingus
Over twenty years ago, a young Dane, Peter Sisseck, had a crazy idea that he wanted to become a winemaker – a rather unlikely ambition perhaps, certainly extraordinary. The germ of the idea was planted by his uncle, Peter Vinding-Diers, who was an established producer in the Bordeaux region. Time passed and Peter remained resolute in his seemingly impossible dream. He studied in Bordeaux and worked with his uncle, amassing vineyard and cellar experience. Restless and looking abroad to broaden his knowledge Peter sought adventure.
Uncle Peter suggested travelling to Spain to assess a project in the relatively unknown Ribera del Duero. There he was faced with vineyards in chaos, set in an extraordinarily bleak landscape, tumbleweed rolling along the streets of the nearby town and vines planted upside down. The report he submitted, unbeknown to Peter, was viewed as a job application. The die was cast. Peter, a young Dane, unable to speak the language, schooled only in the traditional winemaking of Bordeaux, was about to make his mark.
It is hard to imagine how that went down initially but Peter gained universal local respect and those prophesying his imminent demise would have been somewhat chastened when the first vintage astounded the critics. It took the wine world by storm with its balance of classicism and a totally authentic sense of place. That wine was Hacienda Monasterio, a wine which Peter still oversees.
But from those very early days, observing the particularity of the region, the hot days and the cold nights, he had envisaged an entirely different project, his own wine, made from gnarly, ancient vines. This dream would become a reality in Pingus.
2016 Flor de Pingus
£495.00 per 12 bottles IB
£250.00 per 3 magnums IB
A myriad of dark berry flavours particularly plum and cherry, dominate a multidimensional palate that also features hints of dark chocolate and mocha. The aromatics are simply incredible and build and build from the glass. There is plenty of opulence to the richly structured yet mineral driven palate but the overriding impression is one of exquisite balance and underlying freshness. This a sensational Flor that will provide much enjoyment in youth yet improve further in the bottle over 15 years or more. Not to be missed. Drink 2020-2035. Goedhuis & Co