Bobal al limite 2019 Manchuela Las Mercedes del Cabriel

The estate of Las Mercedes has been cultivated since 1896 and belonged to a Spanish prime minister in the 19th century.

It is located in the small village of Villagordo del Cabriel, a name which acknowledges its close proximity to the Cabriel river on the border of the provinces of Valencia and Manchuela.

A Mediterranean and continental climate at 900 metres of altitude. and here a passion for Bobal dates back to 1904.

Production is tiny with just 2,400 bottles of Las Mercedes ‘Bobal al Limite’ are made on average each year as this is made from the oldest vines on the estate.

Production is handcrafted, using gravity flow to move wine through various phases of production reaching a maximun of 9,000 Las Mercedes bottles.

Made from 100% Bobal Las Mercedes is aged for nine months in new French oak and then 6 months in one year old oak and a further 6 months in bottle before release.

"Deep in the glass, the nose offers aromas of black cherry, cassis, as well as more fragrant red berry hints with a touch of spice.

Similar ripe berry fruits are apparent on the palate which shows a seamless quality.

The tannins create a really sleek impression here, adding a surprising level of elegance to a rich, deeply fruited Bobal.

Hints of redcurrant and lighter red berries add aromatic lift on the palate as well as vibrant acidity that carries long into the finish.

The oak here is so well integrated with mere hints of cinnamon and spice, it allows the terrific volume of fruit to take centre stage."

Simon Larkin MW