Barahonda Summum 2023

Barahonda Summum is a single-variety Monastrell red from D.O. Yecla in Murcia, made by the Barahonda winery. The ungrafted vines grow on limestone and rocky soils, which drain freely and reflect heat back into the canopy, helping Monastrell reach full ripeness in this hot, dry corner of south-east Spain. Limestone also lends a savoury, mineral lift that balances the grape's natural power. The fruit is selected and goes through maceration and fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks at 20 to 25 degrees, which preserves the bright fruit character. The wine is then racked into barrel for malolactic fermentation, converting sharp malic acid into softer lactic acid for a rounder mouthfeel, before sixteen months ageing in French and American oak. Farming is organic and the wine is vegan. The colour is deep, almost opaque. The nose shows ripe plum and blackberry with a peppery, liquorice-edged spice and vanilla from the oak. The palate is full and warming, with firm but ripe tannins and an earthy, savoury finish at 15 percent alcohol. Serve at 17 degrees with red meats and roasted vegetables.