2021 Casa Rojo 'Las Vinas Bastardas' Rojo

Aromas of ripe blackberry, dark cherry, and wild thyme integrate with savory notes of black pepper and toasted cedar. The palate is full-bodied and plush, featuring a concentrated core of dark fruit and a rich, velvety texture. It is balanced by a refreshing acidity and well-knit tannins that provide a sturdy framework, finishing with a lingering trail of cocoa and Mediterranean scrub.

The winemaking team utilizes a blend of Monastrell, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Tempranillo sourced from high-altitude vineyards. In the cellar, the grapes are fermented in stainless steel tanks to maintain aromatic purity. The wine matures for 12 months in French oak barrels to soften the tannins and add a layer of spice. This approach focuses on creating a powerful yet balanced expression that highlights the natural intensity of old-vine Monastrell alongside the structure of the other varieties.

The fruit is grown in the high-altitude vineyards of Jumilla and Murcia in southeastern Spain. The site is defined by its arid climate, intense sunshine, and poor, stony soils rich in limestone. These challenging conditions naturally limit yields and force the vines to grow deep roots, resulting in grapes with thick skins and high flavor concentration. The elevation is crucial here, as the cool night temperatures preserve the essential acidity needed to balance the ripeness of the fruit.