Altolandon, Mil Historias Malbec, Manchuela, Spain

Who - Rosalia Molina, Bodegas Altolandon
Where - Manchuela, Castilla la Mancha, Spain
What - Red Wine - Malbec
When - 2023
How - Organic and Biodynamic, spontaneous fermentation stainless steel, 4 months ageing between French oak and amphora where malolactic fermentation takes place, Vegan

The Altolandon winery is owned and run by Rosalia Molina who crafts organic wines in one of Spain's highest altitude wineries at a remarkable 1100 meters above sea level in the province of Manchuela, South East Spain. The high altitude gives a huge day / night temperature range, a remarkable clarity of light, clean air and plenty of breeze which all adds up to a great environment to grow organically, produce healthy grapes with loads of character and balance. She only uses natural fertilisers and promotes biodiversity by welcoming chickens, sheep and pigs from local farms to roam the vineyards freely.

Not often you see Malbec in Spain yet the altitude at Altolandon is similar to that of the Mendoza foothills. The grapes are hand harvested and macerated in an inox tank for two to three weeks before ageing split between amphora and third use French oak barrels. Fresh, powerful and complex with black fruits and violets taking the main stage with an earthy, chocolatey undertone. Great with aromatic meat dishes such as Thai beef or Cuban pork.