Les Alcusses 2023

Les Alcusses is an organic red from Celler del Roure, with estates around Moixent in south west Valencia, in D.O. Utiel-Requena. It is a Mediterranean blend built on Monastrell, the prized local variety, rounded out with Garnacha Tintorera, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Merlot and Syrah. The vineyards sit at around 550 metres on a mix of sandy and limestone soils. The altitude brings cool nights that contrast with warm Mediterranean days, a diurnal range that holds acidity and keeps the wine fresh and lifted despite the warmth, while the varied soils add complexity to the blend. Monastrell provides the ripe dark fruit, body and structure, with the other varieties adding aromatic detail, colour and finer tannin. The wine is aged eight months in used French oak barrels, a moderate ageing in seasoned wood that rounds the texture and adds a light spice without covering the fruit. It is deeply coloured, with a nose of ripe plum and red berry over black pepper, dried Mediterranean herbs and a liquorice edge. The palate is juicy and fruit driven, with crisp acidity, supple tannins and a fresh, energetic finish. This is a red for the table rather than the cellar. Serve at 16 degrees with grilled meats and tomato based dishes.