There is no doubt that some of our very best recent wine discoveries over the last few years have heralded from some of the lesser known wine regions of Spain. Drenched full of warm Mediterranean sunshine, the reds of the south of Spain are some of the best value wines around packed with big bold flavours and rich ripe fruit character. Therefore we were delighted this week to see the arrival of the new vintage of one of last year's biggest hits, Vega Moragona's Bobal.

Bobal, in case you're wondering is the grape variety. Native to Spain, its name comes from the Latin 'Bovale' meaning bull's head in reference to the tightly bunched clusters of grapes it produces. Great levels of acidity, deep and dark in colour, excellent structure and intense black cherry flavour make this an immensely pleasurable wine and at this price, one you can enjoy any time you time you'd like.

Vega Moragona was founded in 1958 by 60 local growers. Its cooler climate lends itself to wines of higher quality than those produced in neighboring La Mancha, the primary reason for splitting from the older designation. Lighter yields from bobal, a native variety, is particularly well suited to the location, producing elegant expressions of the variety with plenty of fruit character. 

Tasting note:
A great example of the new reds coming from southern Spain made from the lesser-known but fruit-laden bobal grape. Fresh and bright with sweetish cherry fruit, vanilla spice and a soft, creamy texture.

Critic review:
"This is a big, youthful wine with plenty of sweet fruit to balance the generous dry tannins. Substantial drive at the bold finish." 90 points, James Suckling (previous vintage)