Suertes del Marques '7 Fuentes' Tinto 2017

This is a fine example of the fresh, tensile and mineral driven wines of Tenerife that showcase the volcanic soils and the native varieties of the island.

Valle de la Orotava DO - a valley facing North and North east on the cooler, ocean-influenced North-facing part of the Island is the home to the vineyards of Suertes Del Marques. The vineyards are on very steep hillsides rising up from the sea. The area is often under cloud cover which protect the grapes from the powerful sun rays. Given the volcanic quality of the soils the vines are phylloxera free and so ungrafted.

Vineyards are worked organically and by hand and with the utmost care and respect for nature and the history.  7 Fuentes is a blend of Listan Negro 90% and Castellana Negra 10%. These grapes come from 35 different plots ranging in age from 10 -180 years old. The old vines are cordon trenzado and the younger vines are on trellis. Altitudes range between 250-800 meters above sea level.

Multiple wild yeast fermentations take place in concrete and stainless steel. Wines are raised in concrete tanks. Minimal sulphur usage throughout.

In the glass - plum, strawberry, black peppercorn. The palette is fresh, bright reflecting the Atlantic proximity of the vines, everything held together by a strong underlying volcanic minerality. Very moreish, quaffable.