Perhaps the most challenging Vega Sicilia estate is Pintia, where constant balancing and plate-spinning are needed due to the unpredictable weather conditions of the Toro wine region and the capricious nature of the local Tempranillo clone, Tinta de Toro. Despite the technical challenges, the results are always impressive and to fall in love with. Although the region tends to be more continental due to its extremes, the wine itself is true Mediterranean. After manual harvesting, the grapes are stored in a cold chamber for 12 hours to preserve freshness and aromas, followed by further bunch and berry selection. Before barrel fermentation, a five-day cold maceration is carried out, with malolactic fermentation occurring 100% in oak. It is aged for 12 months in French and American oak barrels. 2019 was an exceptionally hot vintage. The wine is broad and soft, with significant body. Velvety, dense and complex, Pintia is one of the safest choices for a popular style of big red wine.