Finca Sandoval 'Salia' 2022

Salia is Finca Sandoval's expression of old-vine Bobal and estate-grown Syrah from Manchuela, Spain. This wine (actually all their wines) really delivers delicious and complex wines that are well priced. Medium-bodied, with a taut smokey, graphite character. The palate is beautifully defined, with black cherry and blackberry fruit, cinnamon, velvety tannins, and a long, pure finish.

Finca Sandoval is located in Manchuela, a lesser-known wine region in central Spain that's gaining recognition for its indigenous varietals and high-quality winemaking. The estate works with old-vine Bobal, a variety that's rarely seen outside this region, showing what this indigenous grape can do when it's grown in the right place and handled with care.

Salia is made from old-vine Bobal and estate-grown Syrah grapes, which are co-fermented together in concrete before being aged for 10 months in old large oak. The co-fermentation of Bobal and Syrah creates a wine that combines the structure and character of old-vine Bobal with the aromatic complexity of Syrah. The concrete fermentation preserves freshness and purity, while the aging in old large oak adds complexity without overwhelming the fruit.

What you get is medium-bodied wine with taut smokey, graphite character, black cherry and blackberry fruit, cinnamon, velvety tannins, and a long, pure finish. The old vines bring concentration and depth, while the careful winemaking creates a wine that's both complex and genuinely drinkable. This is honest, well-priced Spanish wine that over-delivers for its price point.

Serve it at room temperature with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, stews, or aged cheeses. This is characterful, complex Manchuela wine from a producer committed to showcasing indigenous varietals and delivering quality at accessible prices, perfect for those looking to explore lesser-known Spanish wine regions.