This month's wine choice is 100% Bobal from Bodegas Chozas Carrascal, D.O Utiel-Requena
Finding a top quality easy-to-drink, smooth, Bobal that does not break the bank is not a trivial pursuit. So when this wine was unexpectedly served to us in a dinner celebrating the inauguration of the art exhibition of a dear friend in Valencia, we immediately thought we must share it with our Gazette friends.
Bobal is a grape variety native to the Utiel-Requena region of the Comunidad Valenciana, where it plays a dominant role in region’s wines.
The thick-skinned berries result in high tannin and contribute to dark, bold, and robust red wines, with high acidity, despite the Mediterranean heat, resulting in unsubtle wines. Historically used for bulk or blending wines, the quality has been inconsistent, with many examples lacking the complexity and finesse of other Spanish varieties such as Tempranillo.
Modern winemaking techniques have revealed Bobal’s poten- tial, especially in single-varietal wines. When well-made, these wines exhibit intense dark fruit flavors, balanced acidity, and good aging potential, making them more appealing to wine enthusiasts who appreciate their boldness and regional character.
Utiel-Requena experiences a continental climate with hot sum- mers and cold winters, moderated by Mediterranean influences. The soil is predominantly limestone-rich and well-drained, ideal for growing the hardy Bobal. Utiel-Requena vineyards are located at high altitudes, typically between 600 and 900 meters above sea level.
This altitude provides cooler nighttime temperatures, helping to preserve acidity and freshness in the grapes, which is particularly beneficial for both reds and whites. The region is also gaining attention for its sparkling wines made using the traditional method (Cava), thanks to its cool climate and high elevation, which ensures crisp acidity and finesse.
Chozas Carrascal is a family-run, young winery, located in part of the Vino de Pago classification, the prestigious designation in Spain that recognises a single estate for its exceptional quality and unique microclimate, similar to the Grand Cru Chateaux in France.
Las Dosces is fermented in cubic concrete tanks of 10,000 to 20,000 litres and macerated for 14-18 days. Clean bright medium intensity cherry-red colour with violet hues giving away its youthful character. Generous tears, thanks to the 14% alcohol content. The nose is intense, fresh, and elegant with prominent fruity aromas, accompanied by toasted, roasted notes and subtle hints of balsamic.
On the palate, its freshness, softness, and intensity stand out. It offers a broad mouthfeel with balanced acidity. The long aftertaste primarily recalls those fruity, toasted, and roasted nuances. A truly delightful surprise!
Serve at 16C with Valencia dishes : Titaina [a flavourful stew primarily made from tomatoes, red bell peppers, pine nuts, and tuna belly (tonyina de sorra)] ; Esgarraet [roasted red peppers, bacalao, and onions, combined with olive oil and garlic]; or croquetas de bacalao.
90 Bruja points, 6.50EUR from https://www.terradevins.es/
(Feature/Wine of the Month)
Keywords: Wine, Valencia, Las Dosces, Chozas Carrascal, Utiel-Requena