Alceño Joven 2024

Alceño Joven is a young red from D.O. Jumilla in Murcia, made by Bodegas Alceño from a blend of 60 percent Monastrell with Tempranillo and Syrah. The grapes come from vineyards set between 600 and 800 metres above sea level, where the altitude tempers Jumilla's heat and the stony, calcareous soils drain freely and keep yields very low, never above 1.75 kilos per plant. That low crop concentrates the fruit. After harvest the wine undergoes a cold maceration to extract colour and aroma gently, followed by carbonic maceration, the traditional whole-bunch method that ferments inside the intact berries to give bright, juicy red fruit and softer tannin. Several pumpovers complete the extraction. The colour is deep, youthful purple. The nose is ripe and lively, with plum, red berries, cherry and black pepper over dried herbs and a touch of liquorice. The palate is medium to full bodied, fresh and fruit-driven, with soft tannin and a warming, spiced finish at 14.5 percent alcohol. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees, lightly cool. It is a versatile match for grilled meat and lightly spiced dishes.