Los Frailes Naturel 2025

Los Frailes Naturel comes from Casa Los Frailes, one of Spain's pioneering organic and biodynamic estates, set in the Vals dels Alforins of inland Valencia in eastern Spain. It blends Monastrell with Syrah and Garnacha Tintorera, the last a teinturier grape with red flesh that deepens the colour. This is a natural wine made without added sulphites, so the cellar work is minimal and the fruit is left to speak. The vineyards are farmed biodynamically and certified organic, dry-farmed on limestone soils that the deep old-vine roots exploit through the warm, dry growing season. Without oak ageing the wine keeps its bright primary character and a slightly wilder, more savoury edge from the unsulphured fermentation. The colour is dense violet-red. The nose is vivid with fresh red berries, cherry and plum, lifted by the wild thyme and scrub of the high plateau and a peppery note from the Syrah. The palate is juicy and full, the tannins soft and the finish earthy and savoury. Because it carries no added sulphites, keep it cool and drink it within a day or two of opening. Serve lightly chilled at 14 to 15 degrees. It suits grilled pork, charcuterie and tomato-rich dishes.