Finca Xaconero 2021
La Laguna de Villena | Enrique Mendoza
"The strength of inland Alicante: a serious, profound, and structured single-estate red that captures the mineral and balsamic elegance of 'Las Tierras de la Laguna'."
Terroir Identity and Mineral Freshness
Finca Xaconero 2021 is born in an exceptional landscape where marl soils and a continental climate impart a unique character. This blend, dominated by Monastrell, shies away from traditional over-ripening to seek a "vuelo" profile, where black fruit blends with hints of garrigue and salinity. Enrique Mendoza achieves a complex and robust red here, designed for those who appreciate the distinctive depth of Alicante terroir.
1. Identity Profile
- Winery: Bodegas Enrique Mendoza.
- Origin: Villena, Alicante (Finca Xaconero).
- Varietal: Monastrell, Syrah, and Garnacha.
- Aging: 12 months in French oak (Allier).
- Volume: 750 ml.
- Category: Single-Estate Red.
2. Sommelier's Notes
Appearance: Intense ruby red with violet reflections, medium-high intensity and a dense, persistent tear.
Nose: Rich aroma of ripe black fruits (blackberries, blueberries), Mediterranean scrubland (rosemary, thyme), and an earthy mineral background. Fine hints of pepper and smoke from its noble aging.
Palate: Powerful and vibrant on entry. Presents a balanced acidity that gives it freshness despite its volume. Present and ripe tannins with a long aftertaste of wild fruit and black licorice.
3. Character Analysis
POWER / STRUCTURE [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
MINERALITY / SALINITY [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
PERSISTENCE [ ● ● ● ● ○ ]
AGING POTENTIAL [ 6 - 10 YEARS ]
4. Serving Ritual
Pairing: Grilled red meats, legume stews, acorn-fed Iberian cured meats, and well-aged sheep cheeses.
Preparation: It is recommended to open the bottle or decant 30 minutes before consumption to release its full aromatic complexity.
Temperature: Serve ideally at 17°C.
