2016 Vega del Rayo Rioja Reserva
Regular price £11.45 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Traditional Rioja Reserva
Tasting Notes
Nose
A traditional Rioja Reserva from vineyards in Rioja Alta with a nose of warm black fruit, spice and vanilla notes.
Palate
The palate has ripe plum and damson characters balanced by well-integrated oak, supple tannins and gentle cedary spice on the finish.
Production Method
This wine is produced from selected Tempranillo, Mazuelo and Graciano grapes sourced from 30 to 40-year-old Rioja Alta vineyards whose distinctive stony soils are ideal for the long, even ripening of quality grapes. The fruit is hand harvested in mid-October. Each variety is fermented separately in small tanks using natural yeasts at 28-30° C. After 20 days on the skins the wine is gently pressed and racked to stainless steel tanks for malolactic fermentation. The clear wine is then racked to 2nd and 3rd year American and Russian oak barrels for 24 months maturation before blending and bottling.
Alan's Personal Tasting Notes
"This is good! Everything I would expect from a well made, traditional Rioja - bright fruit - some vanillin and spice from good oak integration and soft, smooth tannins giving a very well balanced and long finish." Tasted April 2024
Specifications
Year | 2016 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 90% Tempranillo, 5% Mazuelo & 5% Graciano |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content
|
13.5% alc vol
|
Units of alcohol per bottle | 10.1 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Food Matches | Lamb and mint kebabs |
Allergy Information | Awaiting info |
Dietary Information | Vegetarian & Vegan |
Appellation | DOCa Rioja |
2019 Las Jaras, Fuentes Del Silencio
Regular price £22.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%These expertly crafted, artisanal wines were borne out of a passion project to revive old vines in this corner of Spain, and have helped put Jamuz back on the wine-producing map.
Tasting Notes
"The 2019 vintage is very open and expressive, showing an abundance of perfume and floral elements, alongside bramble fruit, warm spice and subtle balsamic notes. The Prieto Picudo adds ample acidity to the softer Mencia, as well as a tannic backbone. " Lenka Sedlackova MW
Producer
Fuentes de Silencio was founded in 2013 on the banks of the Jamuz River, to the south of the province of León. The winery gets its name from the fact that this town had many water reserves and was called the town of fountains.' This passion project is led by oenologist Marta Ramas along with owners Miguel Angel Alonso and his wife Maria Jose Galera.
With old pre-phylloxera vines yards, many of which are over 100 years of age they grow the native varieties of Mencía and Alicante Bouschet in very carefully dictated plots. They currently have 24 hectares of vineyards and plantings of Mencía, Alicante Bouschet, Prieto Picudo, Palomino and Godello. Galician influence here is notable, characterised by the presence of sandy soils and Mencia at high altitudes (800m above sea level) and a continental climate.
Although wine has long been produced in Jamuz, it has done so quietly. This small team is working to bring the essence of the territory back to life and ensure that each of their small plots reaches their highest potential while implementing environmentally-friendly winemaking practices and placing importance on the use of traditional methods. Not only are they the team creating high-quality, exceptional wines of very limited production but they are adding new value to this tiny, relatively unknown region. Jamuz is back on the map.
Production
The grapes are harvested by hand in 15 kg boxes with manual selection in the vineyard before whole bunches are aged in French oak. Macerated for 35 days, the malolactic fermentation takes place in oak vats and concrete tanks, where it rests for nine months.
Specifications
Year | 2019 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 60% Mencía, 30% Prieto Picudo and 10% Alicante Bouschet or Garnacha Tintorera from old vines |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content | 14% Alc vol |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.5 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Cellaring | Awaiting info |
Features | Vegan and Vegetarian, Organic & Biodynamic |
Food Matches | Enjoy with rich Mediterranean tomato-based dishes, steak, or grilled chicken. |
Origin | Castilla y Leon |
2020 Fuentes Del Silencio Mataperezosa
Regular price £39.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%These expertly crafted, artisanal wines were borne out of a passion project to revive old vines in this corner of Spain, and have helped put Jamuz back on the wine-producing map.
Tasting Notes
"The 2020 vintage is more restrained and elegant, showing white flowers and hints of nectarine. On the palate, the broadness of Palomino comes in, giving a hint of honeycomb and peach, alongside pastry notes from oak influence. The acidity is very bright and vertical, bringing harmony to the finish." Lenka Sedlackova MW
Producer
Fuentes de Silencio was founded in 2013 on the banks of the Jamuz River, to the south of the province of León. The winery gets its name from the fact that this town had many water reserves and was called the town of fountains.' This passion project is led by oenologist Marta Ramas along with owners Miguel Angel Alonso and his wife Maria Jose Galera. With old pre-phylloxera vines yards, many of which are over 100 years of age they grow the native varieties of Mencía and Alicante Bouschet in very carefully dictated plots. They currently have 24 hectares of vineyards and plantings of Mencía, Alicante Bouschet, Prieto Picudo, Palomino, and Godello. Galician influence here is notable, characterised by the presence of sandy soils and Mencia at high altitudes (800m above sea level) and a continental climate.
Although wine has long been produced in Jamuz, it has done so quietly. This small team is working to bring the essence of the territory back to life and ensure that each of their small plots reaches their highest potential while implementing environmentally-friendly winemaking practices and placing importance on the use of traditional methods. Not only are they the team creating high-quality, exceptional wines of very limited production but they are adding new value to this tiny, relatively unknown region. Jamuz is back on the map.
Production
A blend of Palomino and Doña Blanca, from very old (some pre-phylloxera) vines. Fermentation takes place in a mix of Cocciopesto (a type of amphora) and Austrian oak. Whole bunches are pressed and vatted to settle in the night-time cold. Fermentation takes place in French oak barrels where it remains for up to 12 months on its lees, with periodic batonnage.
Specifications
Year | 2020 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 50% Palomino; 50% Doña Blanca |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content | 12% Alc vol |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 9 units |
Type | White Wine |
Cellaring | Awaiting info |
Features | Vegan and Vegetarian |
Food Matches | Pairs exceptionally well with curries and spicy dishes, or chicken and turkey with hearty roasted vegetables |
Origin | Castilla y Leon |
2022 Melea Organic Tempranillo
Regular price £9.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Background
The creation of Melea Organic was a labour of love for us all. William Long spent years searching for the right winery to supply the organic, vegan-certified and wild-fermented wines, his son Freddie handled the launch and the label features an original bee motif created by his wife, artist Barbara Long, from recycled threads.
Named after a rare species of bee, everything about the range is created with sustainability in mind, from the lightweight bottles to the stone paper labels, made from a by-product of the quarrying process using a lot less water than normal paper. Melea was also the first Spanish wine brand to become a member of 1% for the Planet. Melea has donated thousands of dollars to bee conservation charities since its launch in 2020. Melea Organic also has an Instagram page to share information on the brand’s sustainable values.
The Vineyards
Fruit comes from organically certified, bush-trained, dry-farmed vines in the Cuenca area of La Mancha. The vineyards were planted in 1999 and are at an altitude of 660m with sandy-clay soils, low in organic matter and high in chalk and limestone. This suppresses yields to just 3-4kg per plant, giving greater quality grapes and red wines with the structure to age well. The extreme continental climate means there is a high diurnal temperature range conserving freshness and increasing aromatic intensity. The lack of rainfall reduces the risk of fungal diseases.
Production
Fermented with native yeasts, the wine underwent malolactic fermentation in tank. Fined using vegan-friendly pea protein.
Producer
The family winery is located in Alicante and is a leader in the production of high-quality, organic wines. They are IFS-certified and produce wines with organic and vegan certification.
Specifications
Year | 2022 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Tempranillo |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content
|
13.5% alc vol
|
Units of alcohol per bottle | 10 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Allergen Information | Contains Sulphites |
Features | Vegan, Vegetarian & Organic |
Food Matches | Simple Tapas dishes including olives, Manchego cheese and sundried tomatoes. |
Origin | Alicante |
Appellation | VdiT Castilla |
2022 Melea Verdejo Sauvignon Blanc
Regular price £9.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Background
The creation of Melea Organic was a labour of love for us all. William Long spent years searching for the right winery to supply the organic, vegan-certified and wild-fermented wines, his son Freddie handled the launch and the label features an original bee motif created by his wife, artist Barbara Long, from recycled threads.
Named after a rare species of bee, everything about the range is created with sustainability in mind, from the lightweight bottles to the stone paper labels, made from a by-product of the quarrying process using a lot less water than normal paper. Melea was also the first Spanish wine brand to become a member of 1% for the Planet. Melea has donated thousands of dollars to bee conservation charities since its launch in 2020. Melea Organic also has an Instagram page to share information on the brand’s sustainable values.
The Vineyards
Fruit comes from organically certified, traditionally managed, dry-farmed vines in the Cuenca area of La Mancha. The vineyards were planted in 1999 and are at an altitude of 660m with sandy-clay soils, low in organic matter and high in chalk and limestone. This suppresses yields to just 3kg per plant, giving greater quality grapes. The extreme continental climate means there is a high diurnal temperature range conserving acidity and increasing aromatic intensity. The lack of rainfall reduces the risk of fungal diseases.
Production
Grapes were harvested after the second half of September, later than average to ensure full ripeness. Wild yeast fermented at a controlled temperature of 15ºC with clean musts. Fined with vegan-friendly pea protein.
Producer
The family winery is located in Alicante and is a leader in the production of high-quality, organic wines. They are IFS certified and produce wines with organic and vegan certification.
Specifications
Year | 2022 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 90% Verdejo, 10% Sauvignon Blanc |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content
|
12% alc vol
|
Units of alcohol per bottle | 9.4 units |
Type | White Wine |
Cellaring Potential | Awaiting info |
Allergen Information | Contains Sulphites |
Features | Vegan, Vegetarian & Organic |
Food Matches | Enjoy this wine chilled, on its own, or create a symphony by pairing it with light dishes such as shellfish, poultry or salads. |
Origin | Alicante |
Appellation | VdiT Castilla |
ALT Sparkling Organic Rosé 0% Alc
Regular price £11.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Our Rosé is the highest rated non-alcoholic wine ever with 98/100 points.
Tasting Notes
Alt. Sparkling Organic Rosé is a fresh and aromatic non-alcoholic sparkling rosé wine made with 100% Tempranillo grapes from sandy and calcareous soils in the middle of Spain.
Crisp acidity & strong effervescence with hints of summer berries & watermelon accompanied by an aromatic aroma.
Dry, Fruity, Mellow. Notes of Summer berries, Citrus peel & Aromatic spice.
What makes us different? From the Producer...
Award-Winning
Both of our wines reached the very top in this year's International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC 2022). Our Rosé is the highest rated non-alcoholic wine ever with 98/100 points.
Organic
We're proud to say that ALT. Chardonnay & Rosé are both certified Organic, meaning that we've gone through rigirous quality control and supply chain checks to ensure that our grapes are sourced from 100% organic wine growers.
Dry
Our wines have an extremely low sugar level. We do not need to add a lot of sugar to bring out a good taste, since we focus on raw materials with high quality and an uncompromising production process.
Vegan
ALT. is filtered using cross-flow filtration where as it's commonplace in the wine industry to use egg white. After filtration, the liquid then goes through patented aroma recovery so that the finished wine is complex & delicious.
Specifications
Year | N/V |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Tempranillo |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content
|
0% alc vol
|
Units of alcohol per bottle | 0 units |
Type | Alcohol-Free |
Calories |
16 calories per 100ml |
Sugar |
4g per 100ml |
Food Matches |
This goes just as well for food as for parties. Perfect as an aperitif, and preferably with salmon, chicken, salads, hummus, quinoa, soft cheese and snacks. |
Origin | Spain |
ALT Sparkling Organic Chardonnay 0% Alc
Regular price £11.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%An elegant, non-alcoholic sparkling wine, perfect as an aperitif.
Tasting Notes
A crisp and refreshing non-alcoholic sparkling white wine made with 100% Chardonnay grapes from sandy and calcareous soils in southern Spain. Crisp acidity & strong effervescence with hints of green apples & citrus peel accompanied with a floral aroma.
Notes of Green Apple, Biscuit and Jasmine Flowers.
What makes us different? From the Producer...
Award Winning
Both of our wines reached the very top in this years International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC 2022). Our Rosé is the highest rated non-alcoholic wine ever with 98/100 points.
Organic
We're proud to say that ALT. Chardonnay & Rosé are both certified Organic, meaning that we've gone through rigirous quality control and supply chain checks to ensure that our grapes are sourced from 100% organic wine growers.
Dry
Our wines have an extremely low sugar level. We do not need to add a lot of sugar to bring out a good taste, since we focus on raw materials with high quality and an uncompromising production process.
Vegan
ALT. is filtered using cross-flow filtration where as it's commonplace in the wine industry to use egg white. After filtration the liquid then goes through patenteded aroma recovery so that the finished wine is complex & delicious.
Specifications
Year | N/V |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Chardonnay |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content
|
0% alc vol
|
Units of alcohol per bottle | 0 units |
Type | Alcohol-Free |
Calories |
14 calories per 100ml |
Sugar |
2.9g per 100ml |
Food Matches | Perfect as an aperitif. |
Origin | Spain |
Lustau Manzanilla Pasada de Sanlúcar Almacenista Cuevas Jurado (500ml)
Regular price £28.49 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%This Manzanilla Pasada of Sanlúcar is aged for 7 years in a solera of 80 barrels and the butts used for this are over 80 years old!
Tasting Notes
Pale straw in color, this Pastured Chamomile is deliciously aromatic, with almond and aniseed hints and the characteristic nuance of the sea breeze. Dry, fresh and light, still with the essence and body of a Chamomile and with a refreshing acidity.
Producers
Accolades
- 2019 IWSC Silver Award Winner
Specifications
Year | Non Vintage |
Bottle Size | 500ml |
Cultivar | Palomino |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content | 17% alc vol |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 8.5 units |
Type | Fortified Wine - Dry Sherry |
Dietary Information | Vegan & Vegetarian |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Food Matches |
Serve at 7 - 9ºC. Perfect as an aperitif, with tapas or as an accompaniment to seafood, oysters, white fish, smoked salmon and asparagus. |
Origin | Cadiz, Andalucia |
Appellation |
DO Manzanilla Sanlúcar de Barrameda |
Lustau Manzanilla Solera Familiar Papirusa Sherry N/V (375ml Half Bottle)
Regular price £11.00 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%A bone dry Manzanilla from the bodegas of the town of Sanlucar de Barrameda.
Light, delicate & very dry
Tasting Notes
Palate
Light and fresh, very tangy, clean and crisp with just a hint of saltiness.
Manzanilla Papirusa is part of the Solera Reserve range from Bodegas Lustau. These wines come from old soleras mostly founded or acquired from 1900 until the 1930s. It is produced for Lustau by Bodegas Cuevas Jurado, which also provides wines for Lustau’s Almacenista range. At the time of bottling it is said to be around 4,5 years old.
Production
After hand-harvesting the grapes into small plastic buckets the bunches are transferred to the winery for pressing. The resulting liquid is fermented at warm temperatures (around 25 degrees) for around 12 days to give a fairly neutral, dry base wine at around 11% alcohol. This base wine is then classified depending on the type of sherry being made. For Manzanilla, a more delicate base wine is required. This wine then enters the Papirusa solera, located in the coastal town of Sanlucar de Barremeda, where it ages for around 4 years under a protective veil of 'flor' (dead yeast which prevents oxidisation) before being fined and bottled under screwcap to retain freshness.
Producers
Accolades
- 92 Robert Parker - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
"The non-vintage Light Manzanilla Papirusa Solera Reserva (with an average age of five years in this solera) possesses an extraordinary, penetrating nose of salty brined nuts intermixed with crisp fruit, terrific acidity and intense, powerful, authoritative flavors that are ethereal in their lightness." (08/12)
- IWSC 2017 Gold Medal Winner
Lustau has, over the years, won multiple medals and trophies, including 'Best Spanish Winery' and 'Best Sherry Producer' at the IWSC and the Len Evans Trophy for consistency (won in 2011 and 2016) at the IWC. Current cellar master Sergio Martínez took charge of the winery's oenological team in 2016, after more than 14 years' worth of experience with Lustau. Sergio has been awarded the 'Best Fortified Winemaker' trophy by the International Wine Challenge three years in a row, following in the footsteps of the late Manuel Lozano who had won this award seven times.
Specifications
Year | Non Vintage |
Bottle Size | 375ml |
Cultivar | Palomino |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content | 15% alc vol |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 11.2 units |
Type | Fortified Wine - Dry Sherry |
Dietary Information | Vegan & Vegetarian |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Food Matches |
It is an ideal aperitif with tapas or as a wine with a meal, with seafood or fish. The Manzanilla 'Papirusa is best served chilled, in a copita or white wine glass. |
Origin | Cadiz, Andalucia |
Appellation | Jerez |
2019 Borsao Blanco Macabeo
Regular price £6.50 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%
Tasting Notes
Colour
A young wine with a pale straw colour.
Nose
Lightly floral aromas with peach and citrus.
Palate
The palate has stone fruit and textural, savoury characters with a fresh and fruity finish.
Production
100% Macabeo grown on alluvial soils in the foothills of the Moncayo mountain. After harvesting, pressing and chilling the must - a short period of skin contact is followed by long slow fermentation at controlled temperature of 22ºC - 26ºC in stainless steel tanks.
Producers
The winery was established as a co-operative in 1959. In 2001 it joined with two other progressive, co-operative, cellars in the Campo de Borja region to become the Bodegas Borsao that we know today.
Grapes are sourced from over 375 member growers covering 2,400 hectares - nearly a third of the region's total. Vineyards lie in the undulating foothills of the Moncayo mountain, ranging from around 350m to 800m above sea level. At lower altitudes, vines are younger and may require some irrigation, but higher up the slopes the vines are older, unirrigated bush vines.
The climate is rather severe and arid, with hot dry days, and cool nights - which allow optimum acidity levels to be maintained within the grapes. Garnacha thrives in these conditions and represents 65% of total production. The Cierzo wind from the Moncayo sweeps across the foothills of the mountain. This cold, dry wind reduces humidity levels and allows grapes to be picked a couple of weeks later in the harvest, at full maturity.
Borsao has access to a large number of vineyard plots at different altitudes, and hence to a wide selection of fantastic quality grapes. They are recognised for their entry-level varietals - as outstanding examples of easy-to-drink inexpensive wines - as they are for their premium wines, in particular the iconic, multi-award-winning Tres Picos.
Sustainability
With 2,400 hectares of vineyards, Bodegas Borsao is a substantially sized operation in a warm, dry region and as a result the availability and usage of water is a major issue. Much of its vineyard area is planted with Garnacha which traditionally has been bush trained. Until recently, newer plantings were wire trained for easier harvesting, but because of the greater exposure to sunlight of this training method the vines can require up to 50% more water. As a result, all new plantings have reverted to the traditional style of bush training to preserve water.
Inter-row plantings are used to improve the water-holding capacity of the soil and protect it from erosion; they contribute to a better soil structure, increasing its organic, nutrient and nitrogen content; they improve biodiversity in the vineyard since organic matter is a food source for several macro- and micro-organisms; they often increase the population of earthworms which are good indicators of soil fertility; they improve fauna above the soil, providing habitat and food for beneficial insects; they regulate vine growth, helping to control the yield and quality of grapes and wine; and they reduce the vegetative vigour of vines and thus their susceptibility to grey mould and downy mildew. These cover crops mean that less spraying and tending of the vines is required, thus fewer passes are made by tractors which reduces the compaction of the soil and the consumption of diesel. Pheromone treatments are also employed to sexually confuse predatory insects, reducing their populations significantly.
The new cellar is well insulated to reduce the need for cooling systems and to minimise energy consumption; all the chambers are equipped with automatic LED lighting; all of the bottling lines have been designed to reduce noise and to minimise the need to move dry goods and floor stock items; all hot water installations are solar-powered; the greater part of the electricity used for illumination is produced by solar panels; and every single drop of rainwater from the vast roof is collected and recycled. Planned new offices will also be equipped with solar panels and other energy-saving mechanisms.
Specifications
Year | 2020 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | Macabeo |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content | 12.5% alc vol |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 9.4 units |
Type | White Wine |
Features | Vegetarian |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Food Matches |
Seafood dishes, tapas and salads and delicious with classic Spanish paella |
Origin | Campo de Borja DO |
Appellation | D.O. Campo de Borja |
2022 Menade Organic Verdejo
Regular price £12.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Wild ferment' organic and high altitude Verdejo - another beautiful example from Menade.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Fresh stone fruit aromas with notes of fennel and thyme.
Palate
The palate is ripe and textural with white peach and herbal characters, balanced by crisp acidity and minerality.
Production
The Verdejo grapes are selected from parcels of vines, 20-25 years old, grown in pebbly, clay and chalky soils at between 700 and 800m altitude. Harvesting takes place by 3 different processes: part green daytime harvest by hand, part mechanised and part night-time harvest. Each parcel is vinified separately using wild yeasts in stainless steel. Fermentation takes place at a controlled temperature of 18-22ºC, and the wine remains on lees for a short period.
Producer
Bodegas Menade was established in 2005 by Alejandra, Marco and Richard Sanz - the 6th generation of this wine-producing family - just a kilometre west of the village of Rueda. Their winery incorporates a cellar hewn out of the solid rock of La Seca at the beginning of the 19th century. Richard is the winemaker at the estate, whilst his brother Marco is the viticulturalist, and sister Alejandra looks after exports and communications.
Their philosophy is grounded in nature, and respect for the vineyards and terroir. All wines are certified organic, no sulphur or copper sulphate is used in their vineyards, and fermentation is with only natural yeasts present on the grape skins. This is a producer of seriously interesting and innovative Rueda wines; their portfolio focuses predominantly on Verdejo and includes the stunning 'La Mision', which is part fermented in tinajas (traditional clay fermenting vessels) made from clay from their own vineyards, and a (non-Jerez) Palomino Verdejo flor aged wine.
Sustainability
Menade’s by-line is ‘Made by Nature’ – the winery doesn’t use chemical treatments, opting instead for a natural approach using plant-based infusions (for example using nettles, cinnamon) which are kinder on the soil, plants and naturally occurring yeasts. All wines are certified organic, and no sulphur or copper sulphate is used in their vineyards. They use green harvesting to control yields.
Their ecosystem includes mobile trees and bushes – to allow them to understand which are the most beneficial across their different vineyard parcels. They also have a garden boasting more than 40 species, many of the plants indigenous to Castilla y Leon, and pollination gardens with aromatic plants. These micro-systems, together with insect ‘hotels’, have created ideal habitats for insects and other wildlife - increasing biodiversity in their vineyards.
Alan's Personal Tasting Notes
'Delivering loads of flavour for an organic offer. Incredibly fresh, good peach fruit flavours, lively acidity and fine layers of texture with an underlying minerality. And Histamine free - so good for allergy sufferers as well! First time I’ve seen that on a label! Does that mean no headaches?!'
Specifications
Year | 2020/21 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Verdejo |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content | 13% alc vol |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 9.8 units |
Type | White Wine |
Features | Vegetarian, Vegan, Organic & Sustainable farming |
Allergen Information | Contains Sulphites and no other allergens |
Food Matches | Baked fish with fennel |
Appellation | VDT Castilla Leon |
2022 Borsao Selección Tinto
Regular price £8.49 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%"Possibly the single greatest dry red wine value in the world, this is an unbelievable wine … any wine retailer worth his weight should be stockpiling this wine next to the cash register ...I don’t understand how anyone can make wines this good to sell at this price… 90 points.” Robert Parker, the Wine Advocate #203.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Rich, plum and red berry fruit with a touch of spice on the nose.
Palate
Balanced yet concentrated red fruit mingles with darker spice and chocolate characters to give weight and layers to the palate. Plump ripe tannins add grip to this classic style of Garnacha.
Production
From selected 15 to 30-year-old vines grown in low yielding hillside vineyards around 600m above sea level. Soils are stony with some sand. The Tempranillo and Syrah grapes are trellised, but Garnacha is bush vine. Harvest usually takes place in the first two weeks of October. Varieties are vinified separately (22-24º C) in stainless steel with 10-15 days maceration.
History
The winery was established as a co-operative in 1959. In 2001 it joined with two other progressive, co-operative, cellars in the Campo de Borja region to become the Bodegas Borsao that we know today.
Grapes are sourced from over 375 member growers covering 2,400 hectares - nearly a third of the region's total. Vineyards lie in the undulating foothills of the Moncayo mountain, ranging from around 350m to 800m above sea level. At lower altitudes vines are younger and may require some irrigation, but higher up the slopes the vines are older, unirrigated bush vines.
The climate is rather severe and arid, with hot dry days, and cool nights - which allow optimium acidity levels to be maintained within the grapes. Garnacha thrives in these conditions and represents 65% of total production. The Cierzo wind from the Moncayo sweeps across the foothills of the mountain. This cold, dry wind reduces humidity levels and allows grapes to be picked a couple of weeks later in the harvest, at full maturity.
Borsao has access to a large number of vineyard plots at different altitudes, and hence to a wide selection of fantastic quality grapes. They are recognised for their entry-level varietals - as outstanding examples of easy-to-drink inexpensive wines - as they are for their premium wines, in particular the iconic, multi-award-winning Tres Picos.
Sustainability
With 2,400 hectares of vineyards, Bodegas Borsao is a substantially sized operation in a warm, dry region and as a result the availability and usage of water is a major issue. All new plantings have reverted to the traditional style of bush training to preserve water. Inter-row plantings are used to improve the water-holding capacity of the soil and protect it from erosion. These cover crops mean that less spraying and tending of the vines is required, thus fewer passes are made by tractors which reduces the compaction of the soil and the consumption of diesel. Pheromone treatments are also employed to sexually confuse predatory insects, reducing their populations significantly.
These cover crops mean that less spraying and tending of the vines is required, thus fewer passes are made by tractors which reduces the compaction of the soil and the consumption of diesel. Pheromone treatments are also employed to sexually confuse predatory insects, reducing their populations significantly.
Awards
- 2019 Vintage - Silver at the 2020 Decanter World Wine Awards
- 2016 Vintage - Silver at the 2017 Sommelier Wine Awards
Specifications
Year | 2022 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 85% Garnacha, 10% Syrah & 5% Tempranillo |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content | 13.5% alc vol |
Units of alcohol per bottle | 10.2 units |
Type | Red Blend |
Cellaring Potential | Awaiting info |
Food Matches | A perfect accompaniment to chicken dishes, paella or chorizo. |
Allergy Information | Contains Sulphites & Egg |
Features | Vegetarian Approved |
Appellation | Campo de Borja |
2022 Borgia by Borsao Tinto Garnacha
Regular price £7.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Campo de Borja is considered the 'Empire of Garnacha' - the most prevalent grape in the region, which just thrives here. Borsao have years of experience crafting ripe and appealing wines, such as this, from the variety.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Bright plum and berry fruit aromas
Palate
The palate is rich and welcoming with ripe cassis and bramble characters and soft, approachable tannins on the finish.
Production
Garnacha grown on alluvial soils in the foothills of the Moncayo mountain. Grapes are typically harvested in the first two weeks of October. Temperature controlled fermentation takes place in stainless steel at 22ºC - 25ºC, with a 15 day maceration period.
Producers
The winery was established as a co-operative in 1959. In 2001 it joined with two other progressive, co-operative, cellars in the Campo de Borja region to become the Bodegas Borsao that we know today.
Grapes are sourced from over 375 member growers covering 2,400 hectares - nearly a third of the region's total. Vineyards lie in the undulating foothills of the Moncayo mountain, ranging from around 350m to 800m above sea level. At lower altitudes, vines are younger and may require some irrigation, but higher up the slopes the vines are older, unirrigated bush vines.
The climate is rather severe and arid, with hot dry days, and cool nights - which allow optimum acidity levels to be maintained within the grapes. Garnacha thrives in these conditions and represents 65% of total production. The Cierzo wind from the Moncayo sweeps across the foothills of the mountain. This cold, dry wind reduces humidity levels and allows grapes to be picked a couple of weeks later in the harvest, at full maturity.
Borsao has access to a large number of vineyard plots at different altitudes, and hence to a wide selection of fantastic quality grapes. They are recognised for their entry-level varietals - as outstanding examples of easy-to-drink inexpensive wines - as they are for their premium wines, in particular the iconic, multi award-winning Tres Picos.
Sustainability
With 2,400 hectares of vineyards, Bodegas Borsao is a substantially sized operation in a warm, dry region and as a result the availability and usage of water is a major issue. Much of its vineyard area is planted with Garnacha which traditionally has been bush trained. Until recently, newer plantings were wire trained for easier harvesting, but because of the greater exposure to sunlight of this training method the vines can require up to 50% more water. As a result, all new plantings have reverted to the traditional style of bush training to preserve water.
Inter-row plantings are used to improve the water-holding capacity of the soil and protect it from erosion; they contribute to a better soil structure, increasing its organic, nutrient and nitrogen content; they improve biodiversity in the vineyard since organic matter is a food source for several macro- and micro-organisms; they often increase the population of earthworms which are good indicators of soil fertility; they improve fauna above the soil, providing habitat and food for beneficial insects; they regulate vine growth, helping to control the yield and quality of grapes and wine; and they reduce the vegetative vigour of vines and thus their susceptibility to grey mould and downy mildew. These cover crops mean that less spraying and tending of the vines is required, thus fewer passes are made by tractors which reduces the compaction of the soil and the consumption of diesel. Pheromone treatments are also employed to sexually confuse predatory insects, reducing their populations significantly.
The new cellar is well insulated to reduce the need for cooling systems and to minimise energy consumption; all the chambers are equipped with automatic LED lighting; all of the bottling lines have been designed to reduce noise and to minimise the need to move dry goods and floor stock items; all hot water installations are solar powered; the greater part of the electricity used for illumination is produced by solar panels; and every single drop of rain water from the vast roof is collected and recycled. Planned new offices will also be equipped with solar panels and other energy saving mechanisms.
Awards
- Silver - IWC 2020 (2019 vintage)
- Silver - Sommelier Wine Awards 2018 (2017 vintage)
Specifications
Year | 2022 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Garnacha |
Country | Spain |
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Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.1 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Cellaring Potential | Awaiting info |
Features | Vegetarian |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Food Matches |
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Origin | Campo de Borja |
Appellation | D.O. Campo de Borja |
2022 Ananto Organic Macabeo
Regular price £9.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Tasting Notes
A beautifully packaged, organic, Macabeo from Manuel Olmo's meticulous vineyards in Utiel-Requena.
Gently floral and lightly tropical aromas lead to a palate with crisp citrus and white peach characters. A gentle and appealing white - well-balanced with fresh acidity.
Production Method
Vineyards are located in the north-west corner of Utiel Requena, 900 meters above sea level. Wines are made from organically grown grapes in vineyards cultivated using natural fertilisers, cover crops, biological control of pests and not using any chemical products that may damage the health of the environment. Grapes are cooled and undergo cold maceration for 12-24 hours and fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks for 15 days.
Producer
The 67 hectare Finca Fuenteseca estate lies in Utiel Requena, a high, rugged plateau, nearly 1,000 meters above sea level just inland from Valencia. The combination of hot, dry summers, cold nights and poor, limestone soil make the area relatively free of vine diseases and so ideal for organic farming. The entire estate is now dedicated to organic production and producing blends combining indigenous and international varieties.
A Note on Sustainability
Along with all its wines being certified organic and vegan, Sierra Norte is keenly involved in projects run by its D.O. that benefit local people and which defend the products of its region. In a wider environmental sense, Sierra Norte is developing a wastewater project by installing a treatment system plant to reuse water, as well as being involved in a photovoltaic solar panel installation project.
Specifications
Year | 2022 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Macabeo |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content | 12% alc vol |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 9 units |
Type | White Wine |
Cellaring Potential | Awaiting info |
Allergen Information | Contains Sulphites |
Dietary Information | Vegan, Vegetarian, Organic, Sustainable |
Food Matches | Ideal to accompany pasta, fish, seafood and white meats. |
Origin | Utiel Requena |
Appellation | DOP Utiel Requena |
2022 Ananto Organic Bobal Tempranillo
Regular price £9.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Tasting Notes
A juicy, fruity organic red from Utiel-Requena, showcasing the region's increasingly fashionable, indigenous, Bobal variety.
Nose
Vibrant aromas of blueberry and blackberry
Palate
The palate has juicy plum and spice notes wrapped in supple tannins, offering a smooth, harmonious finish.
Producer
The 67 hectare Finca Fuenteseca estate lies in Utiel Requena, a high, rugged plateau, nearly 1,000 meters above sea level just inland from Valencia. The combination of hot, dry summers, cold nights and poor, limestone soil make the area relatively free of vine diseases and so ideal for organic farming. The entire estate is now dedicated to organic production and producing blends combining indigenous and international varieties.
Production Method
Vineyards are located in the north-west corner of Utiel Requena, 900 meters above sea level. Wines are made from organically grown grapes in vineyards cultivated using natural fertilisers, cover crops, biological control of pests and not using any chemical products that may damage the health of the environment. Grapes are cooled and undergo pre ferment whole bunch maceration before temperature-controlled tank fermentation.
A Note on Sustainability
Along with all its wines being certified organic and vegan, Sierra Norte is keenly involved in projects run by its D.O. that benefit local people and which defend the products of its region. In a wider environmental sense, Sierra Norte is developing a wastewater project by installing a treatment system plant to reuse water, as well as being involved in a photovoltaic solar panel installation project.
Specifications
Year | 2022 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 65% Bobal, 35% Tempranillo |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content | 13.5% alc vol |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.1 units |
Type | Red Blend |
Cellaring Potential | Awaiting info |
Allergen Information | Contains Sulphites |
Dietary Information | Vegan, Vegetarian, Organic, Sustainable |
Food Matches | Superb with roasts and stews, red meat dishes, small game, cheese or cold meats. |
Origin | Utiel Requena |
Appellation | DOP Utiel Requena |