Introduction:
The 2020 “El Reflejo de Mikaela” by Micaela Rubio is a captivating expression of old-vine Bobal from Castilla-La Mancha. Crafted with precision and respect for tradition, this wine showcases the depth and character achievable from the region's ancient vineyards.

Terrior:
Sourced from over 75-year-old vines in the Ribera del Júcar area, the vineyards are characterized by stony soils with layers of iron-rich clay and underlying limestone. The continental Mediterranean climate, with its significant diurnal temperature variations, contributes to the grapes' balanced ripening and the wine's complexity.

Appearance:
Deep ruby red with violet reflections, indicating both youth and concentration.

Nose:
Aromatic layers of ripe red and black fruits, including cherry, blackberry, and blackcurrant, are complemented by floral notes of violets and subtle hints of licorice and spice.

Palate:
Medium to full-bodied with a silky texture, the palate reveals flavors of red and black berries, plum, and a touch of oak. Well-integrated tannins and vibrant acidity provide balance, leading to a wine of remarkable depth and finesse.

Finish:
Long and harmonious, with lingering notes of red fruit, floral elements, and a subtle minerality that reflects the vineyard's unique terroir.

Press:
92 points, Jeb Dunnuck:
"The 2020 El Reflejo De Mikaela is a smaller production effort based on 90% Bobal and 10% other mixed indigenous field-blended red grape varieties. Ripe black cherries, leather, savory herbs, licorice, and some loamy earth notes all emerge from the glass, and it has a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, savory tannins, and a good finish."

92 points, James Suckling:
"Lots of fruit here with a heap of red berries, cherries, hibiscus, and white pepper. A medium-bodied, very transparent bobal here with firm, dusty tannins and a juicy finish. I like the precision and the restraint here."

91 points, Wine Spectator:
"Fine and harmonious, with a creamy nappe to the mouthfeel that carries a lovely range of spiced raspberry, plum compote, dried marjoram, and lavender notes. Fresh and balanced, with fine-grained tannins and hints of loamy earth and dark chocolate showing on the lightly chewy finish."

Overall Impression:
The 2020 “El Reflejo de Mikaela” is a testament to the potential of Bobal when cultivated with care and vinified thoughtfully. Its complexity and structure suggest excellent aging potential, making it a compelling choice for both collectors and enthusiasts.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 14%
Farming Practices: Organic, dry-farmed, manual viticulture
Producer Name: Micaela Rubio
Old World / New World: Old World
Country of Origin: Spain
Region: Castilla-La Mancha
Grape Varietals: Approximately 90% Bobal with 10% mixed indigenous varieties including Pardilla, Malvasía, Moravia Agría, Moravia Dulce, and Rojal
Vintage: 2020
Wine Style: Dry, medium to full-bodied red wine
Winemaking Techniques: Spontaneous fermentation with 60% whole clusters; aged 14 months in a combination of French oak vats, foudres, and concrete tanks
Pack Size: 750 ml bottle
Container Style: Burgundy-style bottle
Closure Style: Natural cork