Finca El Terrerazo Vino de Pago 2023

Finca El Terrerazo is made by Mustiguillo at Terrerazo-Utiel in Valencia, an estate of 87 hectares whose single vineyard earned Vino de Pago status, Spain's highest single-estate classification, in 2010. The wine is crafted entirely from Bobal, an indigenous variety the winery has worked to revive, from old vines aged between 40 and 65 years. Bobal is a thick-skinned, naturally high-acid grape suited to this inland Valencian terroir of poor, limestone-rich soils at altitude, where the continental climate and wide day-to-night temperature swings concentrate the fruit while holding its freshness, and the old, low-yielding vines deepen that concentration further. Farming is organic. The wine ages eighteen months in French oak barrels, where malolactic fermentation softens the acidity and slow oxygen exchange through the staves builds structure and adds smoke and spice. The result is a deep, structured red with ripe red and dark fruit, smoke, subtle spice and an earthy, mineral undertone. The palate is full and firm, with substantial tannins balanced by Bobal's natural acidity, and a long finish. Serve at 17 to 18 degrees after a decant. It suits roast and grilled red meats and game.