Out of this World 

Tastes like: Sour Cherry. Blood Orange. Violet. Redcurrant. Mediterranean Herbs. Cracked Pepper. Earthy Spice. Silky Tannins. Bright, Juicy Finish.

As avid Star Wars fans, the C&T team couldn’t resist trying out a wine made with a grape variety called Mandó. 

And this is one of those bottles that feels like it is from another planet — vibrant, savoury and wonderfully energetic, with the sort of intergalactic freshness that makes you immediately reach for another glass.

And “this is the way” (that it’s made): Safrà is made by Celler del Roure in the hills of Valencia using indigenous grape varieties Mandó and Arcos — grapes the estate has helped revive from near extinction.

The vineyards sit around 600 metres above sea level on clay and sandy loam soils, helping preserve freshness and aromatic intensity despite the warm Mediterranean climate. 

The 2023 vintage is fermented with indigenous yeasts in ancient stone lagars and stainless steel tanks before spending six months ageing in buried clay amphorae — a traditional method deeply rooted in Valencian winemaking history.

Compared to earlier vintages, 2023 shows a little more depth and spice thanks to a greater proportion of Arcos in the blend, whilst still retaining Safrà’s signature floral lift and vibrant red fruit character.

Expect juicy cherry fruit, orange peel, herbs and fine elegant tannins all wrapped together in a beautifully fresh, dangerously drinkable red.

Pop it lightly chilled with tapas, smoky rice dishes, grilled vegetables or a giant pile of jamón. 

Spain - 2023 - 12.5% - 75cl

Organic - Vegan