For those who have seen my wine tags in the store, you’ve probably noticed a lot of crisp whites, light-bodied reds, and obscure varietals among my recommendations. My palate tends to favor crushable wines with bright acidity. However, as the seasons change, I’ll often reach for a bolder red to pair with a beautiful meal, a warm fire, and the company of my wife.
One of those reds that I often recommend is a wine that punched me in the face about six years ago. That wine, “PSI” by Dominio de Pingus—opened the door for me to the incredible wines of the Ribera del Duero DOP. PSI comes from old-vine Tempranillo, and the goal of the project is to support local growers who continue to farm these treasured vineyards. While it’s not sold under the main Pingus label, the wine is crafted by winemaker Peter Sisseck, and it carries his unmistakable touch. The wine is packed with bright fruit, layered complexity, and a long, elegant finish that unfolds slowly, like being wrapped in a blanket for a long winter’s nap.
As the leaves continue to fall and the winter winds begin to settle in, I can’t think of a better wine to open and enjoy alongside slow-braised or stewed meats, surrounded by friends and family. PSI is a product of passion and history, honor it by sharing a glass with someone who appreciates the craft behind such art.
