The Rufete grape is a distinct wine grape variety hailing primarily from the Spanish regions of Castilla y León. Specifically, it is commonly grown in the Sierra de Salamanca region and the bordering areas of Portugal. A red variety, the Rufete is known for its usage in augmenting the colour, flavour, and aroma of red wines.
The grapes themselves are small in size, with rugged, thick skins. They are typically harvested late, allowing the fruits to reach the peak of their maturity, which results in wines with a well-rounded and stronger flavour. Even though they are relatively low in yield, the quality of wine they produce is significantly high.
Characteristically, the Rufete grape produces wines with high acidity and medium to medium-plus tannin levels, making for a balanced, well-structured wine. On the palette, it gives off a wide range of flavours including red and black fruits, mineral notes, spice and a distinct floral undertone. Notably, the Rufete grape is also capable of undergoing oak aging and often various producers use a blend of French and American oak to add further complexity to the wines.
The wine is often enjoyed paired with hearty and savoury dishes - everything from tapas to roast meats. It also goes well alongside rich, creamy cheeses due to its high acidity cutting through the fat and offering a cleansing palate.
While the Rufete grape is not as widely recognised as Tempranillo or Garnacha, it has nonetheless carved out a special niche for itself in Spain. Due to its unique qualities and distinct flavour profile, it has piqued the interest of connoisseurs and is gradually gaining more recognition globally. The Rufete grape is undoubtedly a testament to Spain's diverse viticulture, illustrating the country's capacity to produce wonderful wines beyond those from the more commonly-known grape varieties.
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