Celler La Muntanya - Paquito Chocolatero - 2017

Celler La Muntanya Paquito el Chocolatero is a distinctive red wine from Alicante, combining Mediterranean fruit, spice and elegant oak character. Its individuality comes from carefully selected grapes from vineyards in the region and the use of traditional local varieties. Monastrell, Giró and Garnatxa Tintorera give the wine an authentic personality rooted in the wine heritage of the Valencian countryside.

In the glass, it shows a clear, bright cherry-red colour. The bouquet reveals ripe fruit together with balsamic and spicy notes and subtle mineral nuances. On the palate, it opens soft and pleasant, with a juicy, rounded character and a structured, deep finish. The combination of ripe fruit and balsamic spice makes it expressive while remaining beautifully balanced.

The individual grape varieties are aged separately to develop their full potential. Monastrell and Giró spend around eight months in 500-litre French oak barrels, while Garnatxa Tintorera is aged for six months in larger vessels. This adds depth and spice while allowing the wine's Mediterranean fruit character to remain at the centre.

One of Celler La Muntanya's distinctive features is its Microviña project, which brings together numerous small vineyards, including recovered plots, in the surrounding region. The project aims to preserve the authenticity of the landscape and local grape diversity while creating economic, social, cultural and environmental value. Paquito el Chocolatero therefore represents not only a wine, but also the revival of a traditional wine-growing culture around Alicante.

Its regional identity is firmly rooted in Alicante in the Valencian Community. The Mediterranean climate and the use of indigenous grape varieties give the wine its unmistakable character, while Monastrell, Giró and Garnatxa Tintorera connect it particularly closely with the local wine tradition.

Serve Paquito el Chocolatero slightly chilled at around 16–18 °C. It pairs beautifully with grilled or slow-cooked meats, Mediterranean rice dishes, cured meats and mature cheeses. It is also a versatile companion to hearty stews and regional Mediterranean cuisine.