Bodegas & Viñedos Ponce "Depaula" Manchuela Monastrell 2024

"Depaula" Monastrell is a lively and slightly fruity red wine. On the nose, it presents intense aromas of red and black fruits like blackberries, blueberries, strawberries and cherries, accompanied by herbal and mineral notes. On the palate, it is full of juicy fruit flavors with a Mediterranean edge, exhibiting ripe currant and cherry notes. The wine has a medium body, medium acidity and a medium finish. Overall, fresh and approachable, rich and fruity, with herbal and mineral nuances.

The grapes are from a vineyard winemaker Juan António purchased in the village of Mahora, fermented 100% full cluster in 4,500-liter oak vats, where the wine also matured. A little more serious, dark and earthy than the reds from other varieties, with elegant rusticity. The tannins are very fine, and the wine is approachable, but it has the seriousness the variety can have. This overdelivers for the price. 12,500 bottles produced.

This project started in 2005 with just 11 barrels and a loan, after winemaker Juan Antonio Ponce, at 23, returned home from working at Cia de Vinos Telmo Rodriguez. The family’s wine growing tradition dates back to Juan Antonio’s great-grandfather. Although his father never made wine, he used to sell the grapes to the local cooperative. These days Manchuela is probably the most interesting appellation in central Spain, led by Ponce.