Valle de la Orotava wine region

DO Valle de la Orotava is in the northern part of Tenerife, one of the larger islands of Las Islas Canarias and the one with most distinct DO’s. Key topographical elements here are the volcanic soils and the Mount Teide which is the active volcano on the island is also the highest point in overall Spain with over 3,700 meters in altitude. The climate is subtropical with stable -and pleasant- temperatures around the year with cooling trade winds. The most important grapes are Listán Blanco (Palomino Fino) and Listán Negro and in Valle de la Orotava the latter is most important in terms of production.

Tasted – 7 Fuentes – Suertes del Marqués

Suertes del Marqués is a well-known bodega producing various types of wines including white, red, rosado as well as sweet and fortified wines. According to their website, in the vineyard they work naturally, and they interfere in the winemaking as little as possible, using a minimum of sulfur. Their philosophy is to work with native varieties and traditional vine training methods. The grapes from Tenerife, Listán Blanco and Listán Negro, are grapes with a light and fresh style, with a distinct mineral character that wines from volcanic soils typically give.

The 7 Fuentes has 90% Listán Negro with 10% Castellana Negra, from different parcels from in part very old vines and the wine is matured in concrete (70%) and large oak (30%).

My wine experience

The wine shows a light to medium intense ruby color. Aromas of red cherry and raspberry, some herbs and stoney, mineral notes. The wine is medium bodied, fresh with medium+ acidity and light tannins. The wine is dry, moderate in alcohol and has a medium finish.

This is a style that for me shows the versatility of wines in Spain as it has a clear own profile of aromas and taste, different from many other regions. An elegant, light and fresh yet complex wine that I would drink with lighter dishes including fish and white meat.

Conclusion

A good wine for a good price

Wine info

2020 | Alcohol 12,5% | DO Valle de la Orotava | Suertes del Marqués | Price range EUR 10-15

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