Description

Region
The Jumilla DOP is one of the ten oldest wine regions in Spain, with its statute established in 1966. Unlike other areas, the phylloxera pest arrived late and slowly in Jumilla, allowing the preservation of ungrafted vines that are well adapted to the local climate and resistant to drought. The shift towards producing lighter wines is a response to current international demand, which favours fresh wines over the stronger, heavily oaked wines that were previously popular. This change also reflects the evolution of Monastrell, a grape native to the region, which has transitioned from being sold in bulk to complement wines in France and northern Spain, to being bottled and appreciated for its wide variety of styles, depending on the vineyard and winemaker.

Producer
Bodegas Luzon takes its name from founder Don Jose de Molina who was a commander in the Royal Armies stationed in the Philippines in the 1800s. He named the property in honour of the island where he spent many years, and which always remained in his memory. In 2004 The Bodegas was acquired by the Fuertes family who have adapted the business to commit to more modern principles, starting with their sustainable responsibility. This started in the vineyards and water waste management, moving to organic viticulture and dry farming. Now with a total of 415 hectares Luzon are devoted to maintaining the quality and traditions of this DOP, whilst moving towards a greener future.

Tasting Notes
This powerful wine is hand selected from the ‘La Melera’ vineyard which is a single plot of 43-year-old bush vines. These very old vines are all dry farmed at an altitude of 675 meters. This wine is fermented with indigenous yeasts and transferred into barrel to age for 12 months, 50% of this is in French oak and 50% American, first and second fill. This wine has a rich meaty nose with savoury spices, black fruit, pepper, and chocolate. The body has fantastic structure from creamy smooth tannins an energetic acidity, and a long lasting finish.

Food
Ideal with heavier meat dishes such as stews, roasts and finer cuts of meat.

Media
James Suckling awarded 91 points in March 2024. 90 points Decanter 2024 tasting.