Al Muvedre 2024

Al Muvedre is a varietal Monastrell from DO Alicante, made by the Compañía de Vinos Telmo Rodríguez, a producer known for reviving old vineyards across Spain. The grapes come from old vines around the town of Monóvar, planted on sandy and loam soils that drain freely and give a more aromatic, lifted style of Monastrell than the grape's denser expressions. Alicante's warm, dry Mediterranean climate ripens this thick-skinned variety fully, while the old vines bring natural concentration and complexity even in a wine made to drink young. Fermentation runs in stainless steel and concrete with a yeast addition, with no oak ageing, so the wine keeps its fresh, fruit-driven character and the grape's natural savoury, herbal edge. The harvest is done by hand in late October. The wine is bright ruby, with a nose of blackberry and dark plum lifted by black pepper and wild thyme. The palate is medium to full bodied at 13.5 percent, juicy and supple, with soft tannin, a peppery, liquorice tinged streak and a fresh finish. Serve at 15 to 17 degrees, lightly cool on a warm day. It is an easy, versatile partner for grilled meats and Mediterranean dishes.