7 Fuentes

100+ year old ungrafted and organic listan negro is splashed with 10% castellana negra in this singular wine, showcasing Tenerife's volcanic soils and vineyard altitude up to 750m (and now with a great new label). Suertes del Marqués considers this their 'village wine', and an introduction to their range, sourcing grapes from 30 different vineyards. After a native ferment in concrete (20% whole clusters) this rested 11 months in concrete and neutral French oak, before an 8 month stint in stainless. Unlike older vintages of 7 Fuentes, this barely opens with any reduction at all, but rather fragrant cherry, wild raspberry, scrubby resinous herbs, and ample cracked peppercorn, all laced and lofted with pink grapefruit acidity. Tannins are fine and sticky, taking this marine red to a lingering saline finish. Super smart, and great energy.

The Canary Islands are a Spanish island chain located off Morocco’s west coast with volcanic soils known for making eclectic wines. 7 Fuentes is a blend of Listán Negro and Castellana Negra that is lighter in body with delicious cracked white pepper, clear minerality, tart cranberry, and red cherry notes. The Canary Islands’ unique volcanic soils can imbue the wine with sulfur-like notes which are noticeable on the nose but are considerably less than other wines I’ve enjoyed from the Canary Islands. Ultimately, 7 Fuentes’ bright structure and delicious flavor profile are a winning combo that makes this wine an enjoyable experience. 90 Vince Simmon