From: Utiel-Requena, Valencia, Spain
Varietal: Bobal
Taste: On the nose are ripe red cherries and fresh raspberries with slight hints of blackberry and a touch of earthy minerality from the calcareous, well-drained vineyard soils—delicate spice notes accented by a touch of Mediterranean herbal nuance and a faint trace of toasted oak. On the palate, the wine shows freshness; a lively acidity with a refreshing lift balances the forward red fruit flavors. The mid-palate reveals layers of soft tannins and a mineral undertone where fruit, spice, and a gentle oak blend on the finish.
Pairing: The wine’s bright, refreshing profile works harmoniously with tomato-based sauces or citrus-infused dishes, enhancing its crisp character. Its subtle herbal and mineral nuances make Mediterranean-inspired fare an ideal match, with dishes featuring rosemary, thyme, or basil—such as grilled vegetables or herb-marinated meats—complementing its natural complexity. Additionally, the wine’s moderate tannins and robust red fruit flavors pair well with grilled or roasted proteins like lamb, pork, or hearty poultry, which provide enough structure to balance the wine without overwhelming its delicate fruit notes. Finally, the slight oak influence can be balanced by incorporating creamy or fatty elements into your meal, with mild, soft cheeses or rich sauces rounding out the wine’s texture.
About. Viñedos y Bodegas Vera de Estenas is a historic family winery located in Utiel, in the renowned DO Utiel-Requena region of Valencia, Spain. The estate is surrounded by a landscape of calcareous soils and steep, well-drained slopes, which provide ideal conditions for growing the region’s flagship grape, Bobal, along with other varietals that showcase the area's terroir.
The winery was founded in 1945 by Francisco Martínez Bermell, an accomplished oenologist who later became president of the Spanish Oenologists’ Association and vice president of the OIV. After World War II, Francisco embarked on a mission to produce wines that truly expressed the character of Utiel-Requena, drawing upon a long family tradition steeped in the art of winemaking.
