Atance Bobal 2021, DO Valencia, Spain

In the late 1990’s, Toni Sarrion began a one-man crusade to save the indigenous variety Bobal and coax it from obscurity to the forefront of truly world class wines. The Vino de Pago El Terrerazo lies within the DO Valencia. Vines for Atance are primarily from in and around the town of Requena. This area is characterized by higher elevation vineyards, up to 700 meters on primarily limestone and sandy soils. The climate is Mediterranean with a strong continental influence with drastic diurnal shifts in temperature and contracting winds from the sea to the east and hot La Mancha to the west. 85% Bobal, 15% Tempranillo. Hand picked grapes. Vinification in stainless steel and concrete tank followed by very brief aging in oak, 2-3 months. This is very expressive, clean and focused, nicely balanced, with no apparent oak, with vibrant fruit, nice focus, high pitched fruit and a thin layer of spices. It has a fine texture with some tannins and a mineral sensation, very tasty, balanced and with a clean finish. It opens up nicely with time in the glass, with some floral notes.