Atance Bobal 2022

Atance Bobal is an organic red from Risky Grapes, a venture from the Sarrión family, the name behind respected wines of the Levante in DOP El Terrerazo. It is made from Bobal, the hardy local variety of inland Valencia, grown on dry-farmed, bush-trained vineyards on the region's sun-baked hills. Dry farming on these poor limestone soils keeps yields low and the berries small, concentrating the fruit, while the old-style bush training shades the bunches and helps the thick-skinned Bobal hold its acidity through the warm Mediterranean summers. The grapes are farmed organically. The wine is aged four months in oak barrels, a short ageing that rounds the tannins and adds a light savoury frame while keeping the wine fresh and approachable. It pours deep purple-red, with a nose of wild red berries, plum and a wild mountain-herb character lifted by black pepper. The palate is medium bodied and juicy at 13.5% alcohol, with the firm but fresh acidity that defines Bobal, ripe tannins and a savoury, herbal finish. This is a red made to be drunk young and with food. Serve at 15 to 16C alongside grilled meats and rustic country cooking.