Pasion de Bobal, Bodegas Sierra Norte

Bobal is one of those grape varieties that languished for centuries in the mistaken belief that it was fit for nothing more than bulk wine. Spain’s third most widely planted variety, it is high yielding and, in truth, has been responsible for some pretty shocking offerings over the years but as growers have learned how to tame it, reducing yields and growing it at higher altitudes, it has grown in stature and is becoming increasingly sought after.

From vineyards 1,000 metres above sea level, just inland from Valencia, this is ripe and plummy - barrel fermented before ageing in French oak barriques to add some sweet vanilla notes.