CELEBRATING OUR 9th YEAR IN BUSINESS
Bodega Chozas Carrascal
D.O. Pago de Chozas Carrascal
Requena-Utiel, Spain
When Julián Lopez and Maria José Peidro acquired this land in 1990, neither expected to have their Cabernet Franc to be recognized as the Best in Spain, their Cava to be ranked as one of Spain's Top 10, nor to have their vineyards named as Spain's 15th "Vino de Pago" - the vineyard appellation D.O. Pago de Chozas Carrascal. Only 17 wineries in Spain have their own D.O. Pago, and after tasting Chozas Carrascal's wines which truly mirror this distinctive terroir, it is simple to understand why this honor was bestowed.
Located just west of Valencia in the Utiel-Requena region, and at an elevation of 2,000 ft and higher, the winery's 30 hectares boast of vines planted nearly 100 years ago, just after the end of World War I. While their vines emanate Spanish tradition, the Lopez family embraces modernity with pride in its organic production, as well as in its energy and carbon efficiency.
As with all family-owned wineries, at some point the next generation takes over. Julián and Maria José's daughter, Maria José, is now in charge of the winemaking. Following in her parents' footsteps, she is leading the winery into the future by capitalizing on its unique potential.
With over 11 varieties - including Spain's native Garnacha, Monastrell, Tempranillo, Macabeo and Bobal grapes - Chozas Carrascal has 5 blended varietal wines, leading up to "Las Ocho" - an 8-grape varietal bliss of red fruit, silk and tannic goodness.
True to the winery's humble roots, the limited quantity El Cabernet F (the Best Cabernet Franc in all of Spain, according to Guia Peñin), is still handnumbered AND signed by either Julián or Maria José themselves.
The following wines are currently imported:
Chozas Carrascal
Las 2 ces Blanco
80% Macabeo
10% Sauvignon Blanc
10% Chardonnay
In a nod to its winery, the "2 ces" are from each "C" of the Chozas Carrascal winery.
Light, fruity and easy-to-drink, this Blanco is simple, yet enjoyable.
Chozas Carrascal
Las 2 ces Tinto
80% Bobal
10% Tempranillo
10% Syrah
The "2 ces" mirror the C and C of the winery name, and not the number of varietals.
Fruit-driven, tannic and sturdy are words to define this simple, yet persuasive wine.
D.O. Pago Chozas Carrascal
Las Tres
75% Sauvignon Blanc
18% Chardonnay
7% Macabeo
A perfectly-balanced full-bodied wine with an intense floral and fruity bouquet.
D.O. Pago Chozas Carrascal
Las Cuatro
25% Tempranillo, 25% Syrah
25% Garnacha, 25% Merlot
Its clear, bright pink color, is only tempered by its strong notes of fruit and versatile structure.
D.O. Pago Chozas Carrascal
Las Ocho
19% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Syrah,
18% Merlot, 16% Tempranillo, 9% Bobal
8% Monastrell, 6% Garnacha,
5% Cabernet Franc
A stunning wine so complex, each layer building on the next from each of its 8 different varietals.
D.O. Pago Chozas Carrascal
El Cabernet F
100% Cabernet Franc
Every winemaker is proud of each of his or her creations. Yet there is always one wine which stands above the rest.
Signed by either Julián or Maria José personally, this wine showcases the best of Chozas Carrascal.
Each bottle is numbered to signify the care that went into each bottle of the vintage's limited production.
Dark, rich and succulent, it's no wonder it has been rated "Best Cabernet Franc" in all of Spain.
D.O. Pago Cava
Cava Reserva
50% Macabeo
50% Chardonnay
This rare Reserva has a smooth texture to it, with an underlying buzz from the bubbles.
Domaine Perna Batut
Muscat
100% Muscat
Foie gras, soft cheese, even dessert. This Muscat is not too sweet, not too syrupy and not too sticky. A perfect consistency, coupled with taste, bouquet and mouth feel.
It is rare one finds such a wine which is suited for all.