Señorio de Barahonda 'Carro' Yecla DO 2019

At 2300 feet above sea level, out of limestone soils that receive very little annual rainfall, twisted monastrell vines produce miraculous green shoots each spring. The Candela family takes exceptional care of their vineyards, which manage to thrive without irrigation in an inhospitable environment. The cool climate of the Campo Arriba subregion of the Yecla DO, in the Murcia province of southeastern Spain, produces wines known for their aromatics. This ‘Carro’ blend is no exception: combining the powerful, earthy monastrell (50%) with syrah (20%), merlot (20%), and tempranillo (10%). The varieties are harvested separately in the cool of the early morning and destemmed. After fermentation, including malolactic fermentation, the different harvests rest for three months in stainless steel tanks before blending and an additional 2-3 months’ aging in tanks. With no oak aging, this full-bodied red retains a bright juiciness grounded by chocolatey depth. Strawberry preserves, cassis, and plum on the nose, with a hint of smoke. Blue and red berry flavors linger on a spicy finish. Organically grown, vegan.