Wine of the week

Chris Lynch drinks a tinto from the Valencia region and dreams of warmer days by the Mediterranean.

Casalabor 2020, Bodega Rafael Cambra

ABV: 12.5%

DO Valencia

100% Arcos

€22.40 from Decántalo (2021 vintage)

£27.70 from The Sourcing Table (UK)

With spring on the horizon, I delve into my modest cellar and pick something to get me excited for the travel I’m planning, something that is always satisfying in these dark months. As it gets a little lighter in the evenings and the days slowly grow longer, I start thinking about my trips, mainly to Spain of course! And as I yearn for those warmer days, what better way to dream than reaching for the Med and the region of Valencia.

Casalabor from Rafael Cambra, a trusted producer amongst the Collective and my wider friendship group, is my ‘wine of the week.’ 

It doesn’t start off very Mediterranean-like. I expected the wine to glisten in the glass, but it’s a little dull, slightly brickish with a light body. It doesn’t conjure up scenes of grilled sardines, just yet.

I quickly discover that there is nothing to worry about, as it comes alive with the smell of sweet red fruits, cherry and dried herbs.

The red fruits, mainly redcurrant, carry on in the mouth. It’s such a pristine wine, with the acidity spot on. It’s long and elegant, with a lightness of touch. And with 12.5% of alcohol, it’s perfect for a lunchtime paella…the proper one mind you, no Jamie Oliver recipes here!