Frontonio Telescópico 2023

Bodegas Frontonio was founded in 2008 by Fernando Mora MW and oenologist Mario López, with the aim of raising the profile of Valdejalón and the wider Aragón highlands. They manage around 50 hectares, certified organic since 2017, much of it old-vine Garnacha. Telescópico draws on Garnacha Peluda and Garnacha Tinta with a small share of Mazuela. Garnacha Peluda, the hairy-leaved mutation, is prized here for retaining freshness and showing a savoury, herbal character in the warm conditions. The region has a Mediterranean continental climate, with hot days and cold nights that extend ripening and hold acidity, while the old vines and poor soils keep yields low and concentrate the fruit. The wine is aged 13 months in foudre, large neutral oak vessels that allow gentle oxygen exchange and rounding of tannins without adding obvious wood flavour, so the emphasis stays on fruit and place. The colour is deep ruby. The nose shows ripe red berries, plum and cherry with dried herbs, black pepper and liquorice, and the palate is full bodied and warm at 14 percent, with ripe tannins, fresh acidity and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees. It pairs well with roast lamb and grilled red meats.