Description
Margalagua is a single vineyard located between 100 and 250 metre above sea level and managed by José Angel Alonso. Its old vines are a good illustration of the history of agriculture on Tenerife - notably the complantation of diverse grape varietals on the same plot of land.
The ungrafted vines are more than 100 years old (the Canary islands are free of phylloxera) and grow nearly wild.
The North coast of Tenerife has a somewhat temperate climate that allows the grapes to reach a good alcool potential and preserve their acidity.
The hardest challenges are the winds coming from the Atlantic or Africa, and the great fluctuations of humidity in the air.
Vinification
The grapes are hand harvested then fermented in whole bunches with indigenous yeasts in old 500 litre cask (French oak). Then they are aged for 11 months in 228 litre barrels. A minimal dose of SO2 is added before bottling. No filtration.
Tasting analysis
Sharp nose of Umami, citrus, spices and flowers. A lovely saltiness too.
Serving
15-16°C.