Demorado Dulce, Pedro Olivares, Murcia 2023

Pedro Olivares, Murcia

Vinos Bio Pedro Olivares is a project in Murcia coordinated by the aforementioned Pedro Olivares with the objective of making natural wines from old organically-farmed vines between 50-110 years of age. Whilst virtually all the old vineyards are located at high altitude, he has also planted an experimental vineyard which is the highest in Europe, being at 1700 metres above sea level. Work is based on the principles of biodynamic agriculture, although Pedro has taken this one step further, describing the project as “multi-dyamic agriculture” as he relishes from the freedom to experiment.

Dark sweet oddity (when are they not) called Demorado Dulce. This is a blend of Syrah and Bobal, the former from the high-altitude Sierra de Segura in the remote Jaén province, while the latter comes from old vineyards in Requeña. The wine is the result of a very long fermentation (one year) that features grapes harvested at a normal time, grapes that are overripe on the vine and grapes left to dry and shrivel in boxes for three months. The wine is bottled without the addition of any sulphur. Yes, a natural stickie! The balance of the wine is fascinating – rich (16% naturally), sweet (140g residual sugar) and pruney, yet with excellent acidity.

A proper tongue-enveloper, with an interplay between aromas of sweet cooked cherries, liquorice, coffee, balsam, and warm cocoa and even a hint of dates coated in honey. Silky in the mouth and a harmony between fresh and raisined grapes with acidity, sweetness and tannin all playing their part.

Grapes: Syrah and Bobal

Biodynamic