The Old Vine Conference: Preserving Viticultural History

On June 19th, The Old Vine Conference organized a special event that brought together producers, merchants, and industry experts in a joint effort to preserve and promote historic vineyards. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of these ancient vines, ensuring their survival through educational activities, events, and the creation of a global database of historic vineyards. With the collaboration of Masters of Wine and associations like DOP Jumilla, The Old Vine Conference highlights the unique value and genetic diversity that these vines bring to the wine world.

On this occasion, Bodegas Luzón was one of the featured participants, presenting their wine Altos de Luzón 2021. The event included conferences, awards, and tastings, emphasizing the importance of old vines and their role in creating exceptional wines. The participation of Bodegas Luzón and other producers reinforces the wine industry’s commitment to preserving these viticultural treasures. 

Altos de Luzón 2021

Altos de Luzón 2021 is a tribute to the roots of Jumilla, made from Monastrell vineyards grown as bush vines at an altitude of almost 700 meters above sea level in La Melera Estate. With an average age of nearly 50 years, these vineyards are hand-harvested in 10 to 15 kg boxes and carefully transported to the winery. The grapes are chilled for 24 hours at 6ºC before being selected on the sorting table, ensuring quality prior to vinification.

Vinification: Fermentation takes place over 8 to 10 days at controlled temperatures between 24 and 26ºC. The wine remains in contact with the skins for a period of 10 to 15 days.

Ageing: This wine ages for 12 months in American and French oak barrels, developing its unique and complex character.

Tasting Notes: Deep red with ruby highlights, Altos de Luzón 2021 offers intense aromas of red and black fruits, sweet spices, and soft notes from aging. On the palate, it is agile and fresh, with vibrant fruit character, fine tannins, and a persistent finish.

Characteristics of the 2021 Vintage: A cold and rainy winter followed by a mild spring and hot summer resulted in smaller grapes but with excellent acidity and quality. This vintage has a Mediterranean profile, with fresh and energetic wines, accompanied by notes of ripe fruit and smooth tannins.

Alcohol Content: 14.5% vol.

Storage and Consumption: It is recommended to consume this wine at a temperature between 14 and 16ºC. For storage, it is crucial to maintain a constant temperature around 15ºC, avoiding thermal variations that could affect its quality.