Wines Valencia Can Leandro - La Lloma - 2023

Viniou Reviews

Can Leandro’s Cuvée La Lloma 2023 from the Valencia DO is a Spanish red embodying the youthful vibrancy of its region. While the precise blend isn’t detailed, La Lloma is typically crafted from indigenous varieties such as Monastrell and Garnacha Tintorera, with occasional support from international grapes like Syrah. The 2023 vintage, being quite recent, promises an expressive and fruit-forward character, highlighting bright red and black fruit notes, possibly laced with subtle hints of Mediterranean herbs and sweet spice if there has been minimal oak ageing. The winemaking approach at Can Leandro often focuses on clarity of fruit and freshness, with careful handling to preserve varietal typicity and regional identity.

The Valencia DO, situated on Spain’s southeastern coast, benefits from a warm Mediterranean climate with refreshing coastal breezes and a significant diurnal temperature shift, which ensures ripe fruit balanced by natural acidity. Soils here are largely alluvial and limestone-rich, facilitating good drainage and lending minerality to the wines. Valencia boasts a long and storied wine heritage, blending traditional Spanish know-how with increasing modern innovation, and is a region increasingly recognised for its quality-driven producers championing local grape varieties.

This vibrant red will pair beautifully with a range of dishes. Its youthful exuberance and fruit-driven style marry well with grilled meats, particularly lamb or pork. Classic Valencian fare such as arroz al horno, slow-cooked rice with sausages and pork, is a superb match. Charcuterie and aged Manchego cheese are also excellent accompaniments, allowing the wine’s freshness to complement savoury and nutty flavours.

For optimal enjoyment, serve Can Leandro’s Cuvée La Lloma 2023 at 16-18°C. Given its youth, a brief decant—around half an hour—can help open up its aromatic profile. This is a wine to savour in its vibrancy over the next couple of years while its lively fruit is at the forefront.