La Xara 2025

La Xara is an organic red from Bodegas y Vinedos Ponce, the family project of Juan Antonio Ponce in Villanueva de la Jara, in D.O. Manchuela. Ponce is known for a low intervention approach that lets site and grape speak. While the estate is best known for the native Bobal, La Xara is made from Garnacha Tinta, a variety that gives pale colour, bright red fruit and a floral, peppery character when handled with restraint. The wine is aged for ten months in large foudres rather than small barrels, so the higher wood volume and slow oxygen exchange round the texture and add a savoury edge without imposing oak flavour, keeping the fruit fresh and the wine light on its feet. The colour is a bright, vivid ruby. The nose is fragrant, with red berries, cherry and redcurrant over white flowers, dried herbs and a touch of black pepper. The palate is fresh and lively, with fine tannins, juicy acidity and a clean finish. This is a Garnacha made for drinking with pleasure rather than ageing. Serve lightly cool, at 14 to 16 degrees. It is an easy partner for roast chicken and grilled pork.