Barahonda 2022 'Barrica' (Monastrell/Syrah), Yecla DO
Item Number: 23343
UPC: 0-810411010723
Country: Spain
Region: Murcia
Sub Region: Yecla
Appellation/AVA: Yecla DO
Estate Grown Wine: Yes
Vintage: 2022
Grape(s): 75% Monastrell / 25% Syrah
Type: Wine - Red
Bottle Size: 750 ml
Pack: 12
Closure: Cork
Viticulture: Practicing Organic
This wine is made from estate-owned grapes. It combines the power of Monastrell with the spice of Syrah. The vines are head pruned in the traditional manner and are dry farmed (no irrigation). The Monastrell grapes come from vines over 60 years old. Yields are a low 2 kilograms (4.4 lbs.) of fruit per vine, which results in wines that are naturally balanced and concentrated.
Terroir Notes: The vineyards are located in the Campo Abajo district of Yecla, Murcia, in southeastern Spain, at an elevation of 500 meters (1,640 ft). Monastrell, the most planted grape here and the second most planted red grape in Spain, thrives in Yecla’s cooler temperatures and higher altitude, producing brighter, more aromatic wines. The region's sandy and clay soils are low in organic matter but provide good drainage and retain water, which supports vine health in the arid climate. With an average temperature of 66°F from May to October and only 13 inches of annual rainfall, the Mediterranean climate, with a hint of Continental influence, contributes to the wine's concentration and complexity.
Winemaking Notes: Both Monastrell and Syrah are hand harvested and vinified separately. The Monastrell macerates for 15 days at 79F. The Syrah is fermented at 75F and macerates for 12 days. Malolactic fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks. The wine is aged in French oak barrels for six months before the two varieties are blended together. Once the final blend (assemblage) is completed, it is bottled and kept in cellar for another 6 months.
Tasting Notes: Lurid ruby. Ripe black and blue fruits, cola, vanilla and potpourri on the deeply perfumed nose. Smooth and sweet on entry and then tighter in the mid-palate, offering bitter cherry and blueberry flavors and hints of vanilla and spice cake. A smoky nuance emerges with aeration and carries through the long, gently tannic finish, which echoes the vanilla note.
Pairing Suggestions: In addition to the predictable array of roasted and grilled red meats, the ripeness of Monastrell with the spice of Syrah will make this wine pair even better with grilled or roasted pork tenderloin, pork chops and Tandoori chicken or veal. For a more unusual pairing, try this wine with the finest corned beef or pastrami-on-rye sandwich you can find and don't forget the half-sour pickle.