El Sequé 2022

El Sequé is a red from D.O. Alicante made by Bodegas y Viñedos El Sequé, part of the Rioja-based Artadi group. The fruit comes from old Monastrell vineyards in Paraje el Sequé, near Pinoso, planted at around 600 metres on quaternary sandy soils over a clay subsoil. The sand gives free drainage and lifts aromatics, while the clay beneath holds water through the dry Mediterranean summer, slowing ripening on a late variety that needs warmth and altitude to keep its acidity. The grapes go through a cold maceration of 24 to 48 hours in open stainless steel tanks to draw colour and fruit before fermentation, then 12 months in French oak that softens the firm Monastrell tannin and adds a savoury frame. The colour is deep and dark. The nose leads with ripe black plum and cherry, wild herbs and esparto grass, with black pepper and liquorice behind. The palate is full and warm at 14.5 percent, the tannins ripe and the finish carrying dried herb and a touch of oak spice. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, ideally decanted. Good with roast lamb and aged cheese.