Chateau Cantemerle 2020 vs Juan Gil Jumilla Blue Label 2023

Juan Gil Jumilla Blue Label 2023

Bodegas Juan Gil Blue Label is a powerful, opulent red from Jumilla — one of Spain's most exciting wine regions and the spiritual home of Monastrell. Sourced from old bush vines planted at around 700 metres on the stony slopes of the Peñarrubia mountain, aged 18 months in French and American oak, this is a wine of real concentration, depth, and surprising elegance for its 15% ABV. Why You'll Love It The Gil family have been producing in Jumilla since the early 20th century, but it was Miguel Gil — great-grandson of the founder — who transformed the estate with a new bodega in time for the 2003 vintage. Today, Bodegas Juan Gil farms over 750 hectares, predominantly old, unirrigated bush vines from indigenous Monastrell clones with yields so low the concentration in the glass is extraordinary. If you want to understand why Monastrell is having its moment, this is the bottle to open. Vineyard & Production Made from low-yielding, old-vine Monastrell blended with Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, all planted at around 700 metres altitude on poor, stony soils. Fermented in small 5-tonne tanks before malolactic fermentation in French and American oak barrels. The separate parcels are aged for 18 months before the final blend is assembled. Tasting Notes Opulent aromas of ripe black fruits, spice, and balsamic notes on the nose. The palate is rich and full — mocha, cherry, plum, and chocolate characters supported by rounded tannins and fresh acidity. Despite its 15% ABV, the wine remains elegant, fresh, and remarkably well-balanced. Perfect Pairings Built for bold, flavourful food. Excellent with rich pasta ragù, roast meats, game, slow-braised short rib, and aged hard cheeses. Also a natural match for dark chocolate desserts. The Blend Monastrell, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah