Monastrell (or Mourvedre), is native to Southeastern Spain. It’s a famously drought-tolerant variety, and its rich profile relies on extended sunshine hours for ripening, perfect for these ancient vines grown across the Albacete plateau behind Valencia, an area that has less than 350ml of rainfall per year and consistent hot days and cool desert-like nights in the ripening period. The poor, limestone-rich soils here restrict vigour in the vines, but send energy straight to the fruit, providing very low yields of extremely potent flavours. This wine is 100% estate-grown Monastrell, traditionally fermented and then aged in 300L French oak barrels for 6 months (15% new oak).
2022
The intensity is immediately evident on the nose, with deep brambly characters, confit fruit and whispers of smoke. The palate brings forth brightness and freshness along with a full-bodied mouthfeel, so while the flavours are weighty, the full picture is beautifully harmonious and never too heavy. It’s begging for a side of Jamon Iberico and a slab of salty, hard cheese.
96 points, Luca Maroni
