Juan Gil Blue Label 2023

Juan Gil is a historic Jumilla winery in Murcia, founded in 1916 and now run by the fourth generation. The Blue Label blends Monastrell with Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah from vineyards of around 70 years old, planted at 700 metres on sandy, limestone and stony soils that are poor in nutrients. That low fertility and the old vines keep yields naturally small, concentrating the fruit, while the high altitude brings cool nights that hold acidity in an otherwise hot, arid climate. Monastrell ripens late and thrives in this heat, giving the wine its dark colour, ripe black fruit and 15.5 percent alcohol. After fermentation it ages for 18 months in French and American oak, a long maturation that smooths the tannins through gradual oxygen exchange and layers in vanilla, cinnamon and a toasty depth. The colour is dense, almost opaque ruby. The nose shows ripe plum, black cherry, vanilla and sweet spice over a chocolate edge. The palate is full and warm, with concentrated fruit, fine tannins and a long, spiced finish. Serve at 17 degrees and decant. Best with hearty meat dishes.