La Comarcal Viticultores Ambulantes DelMoro Tinto 2023

La Comarcal is the project of Javi Revert and Victor Marqués, two winemakers who met at Celler del Roure and set out to work small parcels of distinctive old vines. DelMoro comes from the D.O. Utiel-Requena inland from Valencia, where a warm Mediterranean climate ripens Garnacha Tinta, Syrah and Bobal grown on vines between 15 and 50 years old around the village of Venta de Moro. The continental altitude of this high plateau brings cool nights that slow ripening and hold acidity, while the older vines keep yields low and concentrate the fruit. Fermentation is followed by eight months in French oak barrels, enough to soften the tannins and add a light savoury frame without covering the fruit. Expect a deep ruby colour and a nose of ripe strawberry and red plum lifted by black pepper and wild thyme, with an earthy undertone from the older Bobal. The palate is generous and warm at 14.5% alcohol, with ripe berry fruit, a peppery spice and firm but rounded tannins carrying a savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 17C, ideally decanted, with grilled lamb, roast pork or aged sheep cheese.