Honoro Vera Organic 2024

Honoro Vera Organic comes from Bodegas Juan Gil in Jumilla, deep in the south-east of Spain, where Monastrell is the dominant grape. The fruit is grown organically on low-yielding vineyards over limestone soils in a dry, arid climate with cold winters and very hot summers, conditions that push Monastrell to full ripeness and build its dark, spicy character. Limestone and the wide day-to-night temperature swing temper that ripeness, holding freshness in the fruit and keeping the wine balsamic rather than heavy. This bottling sees no oak ageing, so the focus stays on bright, unmasked varietal fruit. Expect a deep violet-tinged red and a nose of ripe plum and blackberry lifted by floral and herbal notes. The palate is vibrant and full, with ripe black fruit, peppery spice, liquorice and a soft, balsamic freshness that carries the alcohol. Tannins are supple and the finish is generous and warming. Organic and vegan, it drinks well young and on the day it is opened. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees alongside grilled red meats, spiced stews or roasted vegetables.