Finca Sandoval La Rosa Bobal 2021
Finca Sandoval La Rosa Bobal
Region: Castilla-La Mancha, Spain
Vintage: 2021
Bottle size: 75cl
Grape: Bobal
ABV: 13%
La Rosa Bobal is a rare gem, whose label is a nod to the region’s saffron history. This characterful wine embodies the essence of the Mediterranean, boasting a fresh and herbaceous nature with a touch of meatiness. This elegant wine has very good freshness, fine tannins and great ageing potential.
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. After an initial short cold maceration, fermentation started with indigenous yeasts in stainless-steel, with 30% whole bunches adding lift and a 15 day maceration adding structure. The wine was then aged in large foudre for 14 months allowing for gradual integration and development of complex aromas. It was bottled without finning or filtration.
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.