Barahonda Lualma 2022

Barahonda has worked the land in Yecla, in the Murcia region of southeast Spain, for three generations since its founder began selling wine from earthenware jars two centuries ago. Lualma is a blend of Garnacha, Monastrell and Syrah grown in a hot, dry Mediterranean climate where high summer temperatures and low rainfall push ripeness, building the deep colour, ripe fruit and fifteen percent alcohol that define the wine. The poor limestone soils restrict vine vigour and concentrate the berries, while Monastrell brings firm structure and Syrah adds dark spice. The blend spends eighteen months in oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange through the wood softens the abundant tannins and integrates the alcohol, layering in vanilla, clove and a smoky, toasted edge. The wine is deep, near opaque purple. The nose is generous, with ripe plum and black fruit, black pepper, liquorice and dark chocolate. The palate is full and warming, rich in fruit but held by firm tannin and enough acidity to keep it balanced through a long, spiced finish. Serve at seventeen to eighteen degrees with grilled red meat, lamb stew or roasted root vegetables.