Pasion de Bobal 2023

Bobal isn't a grape you see every day, but it's one of the Valencia region's mainstays, known for producing bold, deeply coloured reds - and this one delivers just that, with a surprising freshness to keep things lively. It comes from old, low-yielding vines grown high up on the Fuenteseca estate, with the wine spending six months in barrel. Big, ripe blackberry and plum flavours lead the way, with a savoury twist and a hint of vanilla. Rich and full of dark fruit, with smooth tannins and a lifted finish, it's generous, expressive, and excellent value for money.

Great with rich meaty dishes like lamb stew or beef tagine, but just as happy alongside hard cheeses or charcuterie - the dark fruit and savoury edge match beautifully.

Bodega Sierra Norte's Finca Fuenteseca estate lies in Utiel-Requena, a high, rugged plateau, nearly 1,000 metres 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 region is the spiritual home of the Bobal grape variety which suits the local climate perfectly. The whole estate is fully given over to organic production both for Bobal and the other varieties grown here.