Finca Sandoval Finca Sandoval 2023
Finca Sandoval Finca Sandoval
Region: Castilla-La Mancha, Spain
Vintage: 2023
Bottle size: 75cl
Grape: Syrah, Garnacha
ABV: 14%
The nose combines aromas of violet and dark berries layered with notes of balsamic, pepper and a hint of olive tapenade and charcuterie. On the palate, it is juicy, powerful, and balanced with fine tannins.
Finca Sandoval farm 26 hectares of organically certified vineyards located between 700-1000 metres on the slopes of the Cuenca mountains, in Ledaña village. The soils are mainly sandy limestone. The oldest vineyards are planted with the region’s heritage varieties Bobal, Monastrell and Garnacha, while the original Syrah and Touriga Nacional vineyards were planted by Víctor. The local white varieties are sourced from 50 to 80-year-old vines and include Albilla Manchego, Marisancho, Tortosí and Trepadell varities. They are co-planted in ancient Bobal vineyards on more calcareous soil that together with the altitude of the vines enhance the freshness of this wine.
The grapes were hand picked and transported to the winery where they were foot treaded. After an initial short cold maceration, fermentation started with indigenous yeasts in stainless-steel, with 50% whole bunches, adding lift, and a 15 day maceration adding structure. The wine was then aged in large foudre for 15 months allowing for gradual integration and development of complex aromas.
Finca Sandoval was founded in 1998 by El Mundo editor and wine columnist Víctor de la Serna. His early influence brought this winery and the overlooked region of Manchuela to the attention of worldwide critics. Today, the estate is led by local businessman and wine enthusiast, Angel Garcia-Cordero and talented Valencian winemaker Javi Revert, who has been at the helm since 2019. Born and raised in a grape-growing family, Javi is described by Luis Guitierrez (The Wine Advocate, 2024) as “one of the most exciting young growers in the Mediterranean zone of Spain.” He brings a wealth of ambition and talent to Finca Sandoval, creating exciting, innovative wines that evidence why Manchuela deserves our attention.