Bodega Cerrón La Servil 2024

Bodega Cerrón, run by the Cerdán family near Fuente-Álamo, makes this organic red from Monastrell in D.O. Jumilla, in Murcia. The fruit comes from vineyards lying at around 960 metres above sea level, an altitude that tempers the heat of this dry, sun-baked region and stretches the growing season. Cool nights at that height preserve acidity and aromatic freshness in a thick-skinned, late-ripening grape that would otherwise turn jammy, giving depth without losing balance. Ageing runs for 12 months in 500-litre French oak barrels, larger vessels whose lower surface-to-wine ratio adds gentle oxygen and subtle spice while letting the fruit stay in front. The wine is a bright cherry-red with deep colour and an intense nose of ripe plum, strawberry and red fruit over pepper, liquorice and savoury oak. The palate is full bodied and warming, with concentrated dark fruit, firm but ripe tannins and a long, spiced finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, and decant to soften the structure. It suits grilled and roasted red meats and rich, slow-cooked dishes.