Born in 1953, Carlos Moro was raised on his family's vineyards in Ribera del Duero. He embarked upon a career in the Spanish wine industry, before founding his own company in 1988. Today he produces wines from several estates and single -vineyard sites dotted throughout Castilla y Leon. The Finca Valdehierro is a low-yielding bush-vine vineyard planted in 1943, at 750m above sea level, north of the Duero River.

Bright, clean red fruit typical of Tempranillo from this region. 16 months in barrel adds roasted coffee, vanilla and a rich earthy texture, balanced by graphite minerality. Smoke and liquorice ride a lingering finish.

Full flavoured meats; the bright fruit brings the best out of steak dinner. Also a good companion for lamb.

The Cigales appellation is relatively young, having been established in 1991; wines from this region mimic the higher-altitude areas of the more famous Ribera del Duero, with power and majesty- and excellent ageing potential.