El Cielo Eclipse

A complex and elegant red wine from the Guadalupe Valley, Baja California, that aims to express the freshness and youth of the grapes.

General Information

• Winery: Vinos El Cielo
• Region: Guadalupe Valley, Baja California, Mexico
• Vintage: 2020 (although other vintages such as 2021 also exist)
• Varietals: A blend of red grapes. The main varietals are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Nebbiolo. Some sources also mention Malbec.
• Aging: 12 months in French oak barrels.
• Alcohol: Approximately 13.6% (may vary slightly depending on the vintage).
• Aging Potential: Recommended between 5 and 10 years under optimal cellar conditions.
• Serving Temperature: It is suggested to serve between 16°C and 18°C (61°F and 64°F).

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Presents an intense cherry red color with violet hues, or plum red with ruby hues. Medium to high color intensity. Brilliant.
• Nose: Aromatic and complex. Aromas of black fruits such as black cherry, blackberry, and blueberry are perceived, along with red fruits like raspberry and currant, with a spicy finish where black pepper and clove notes predominate. Floral notes such as hibiscus and violet are also found, as well as hints of damp earth, fresh herbs, and subtle notes of chocolate.
• Palate: On the palate, it is dry, with a medium body and a good balance between acidity and alcohol. Elegant and polished tannins, which give it structure. The flavors recall the black and red fruits perceived on the nose, complemented by the spicy, vanilla, chocolate, and leather notes. Long and persistent finish with a mineral touch.

Food Pairing

This wine pairs well with wood-fired pizzas, pasta with tomato sauces, lean meats, and semi-mature cheeses. It is also a good option to accompany grilled or roasted red meats, meat stews, mature cheeses, pizzas with robust ingredients, and pasta with meat sauces.

Awards (if applicable)

(As of this response, I have not found specific awards for the 2020 vintage of Eclipse. However, Vinos El Cielo is a winery recognized for the quality of its wines, so it is likely to have received some mention or award in other vintages.)

Additional Information

• The name “Eclipse” refers to an astronomical phenomenon, symbolizing the transient occultation of one celestial body by another.
• This wine seeks to highlight the freshness and youth of traditional Old World grapes, adapted to the terroir of the Guadalupe Valley.