For many years, Casa los Frailes has been a bastion of expertise in cultivating the monastrell grape. They now introduce Los Frailes Bilogía, a red wine from the D.O. Valencia that showcases the most vibrant expression of this Mediterranean variety, artfully blended with syrah.
The grapes used to produce Los Frailes Bilogía are grown in two distinct plots within the Valle dels Alforins (in the southwest of Valencia). The monastrell thrives in La Encina, a venerable vineyard (over 30 years old) situated at an altitude of 680 meters. Conversely, the syrah is sourced from the Augusta plot, with 10-year-old vines planted at an elevation of 660 meters. Both varieties are nurtured in calcareous soils rich in iron and silica, which not only facilitate proper grape maturation but also promote healthy root development. The Mediterranean Sea, approximately 50 km away, exerts a direct influence on these dry-farmed vineyards, providing a cooling effect when summer temperatures soar.
Since the late 1990s, these vineyards have been cultivated with an unwavering commitment to ecological and biodynamic practices, ensuring environmental stewardship. This pivotal decision was made by siblings María José and Miguel Velázquez, the latest generation to helm the winery (which has been in their family's care since 1771). Each grape variety is meticulously handled separately, a practice that extends to the harvest (entirely by hand), ensuring each variety is picked at its optimal ripeness. In the winery, their paths remain distinct; they are fermented in separate tanks. Prior to fermentation, a pre-fermentative maceration at 2°C is conducted to enhance the extraction of aromas. The monastrell will be transferred to concrete tanks (where it will age for 5 months), while the syrah will mature in second, third, and fourth-fill French oak barrels (225 l) for one year. Ultimately, Los Frailes Bilogía will be artfully blended.
The finishing touch to Los Frailes Bilogía is its label. Through this visual element, the Velázquez family pays homage to their forebears with a photograph taken in 1907 of the 11th generation. With this gesture, Los Frailes Bilogía becomes the quintessential wine for ceaseless enjoyment.