Viveros Cambra Valencia Angosto Tinto 20

The Valencia Denomination of Origin, in the center of Spain's east coast, is defined by a beautiful coastline, stark mountain vistas, and, most importantly, incredible resilience. Sadly, recent flooding has impacted the region, leaving a devastating mark on its legendary history and thriving vineyards.

Much like the devastation we experienced here in Western North Carolina, Valencia is slowly and purposefully healing from the natural disaster—a vivid reminder of the unpredictable nature of our environment in this time of climate change. Despite this hardship of recovery, Valencia remains a beacon of viticultural innovation and dedication in central Spain.

Valencia's vineyards certainly celebrate indigenous Spanish varietals; however, the local vignerons also embrace an increasing number of international varietals. Alongside native cultivars, varieties like Cabernet Franc, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon have found a welcoming home in Valencia terroir. Their cultivation reflects an open willingness to explore and integrate different grape profiles, offering a fresh take on local winemaking traditions while, more importantly, responding to the distinct threat of global warming.

Vincente Cambra comes from a long line of winemakers in Valencia, going back to the early 1900s. The family holdings are located midway between Murcia in the south and the city of Valencia in the north. The vineyards span 30 hectares of rolling hills, between 1800 and 2000 feet in altitude, all parked on mineral-rich limestone soils. Since it's further to the west, it sits in more of a transitional zone between the coastal climate of the Med and the high desert climate inland.

As I've found with most of my travels in Spain, the Cambra family winery is a somewhat modest structure. You won't find glitzy multi-million-dollar winery showrooms in this village — just farmers making wine. What may be lacking in glitz and glimmer is deftly made up in the quality and integrity department.

Bodega El Angosto's flagship, Angosto Tinto, is a beautifully crafted blend that marries 50% Syrah, 30% Grenache, and 20% Cabernet Franc. In your glass, you're greeted with a medley of dark cherry, blackberry, violet, and red licorice aromas leading to a toasty edge that frames the vivid fruit. Nicely rounded tannins keep the palate clean and the fruit lifted through the soft finish.

Pro Tip:
If this all seems familiar, you're spot on! Vincente Cambra makes Parcelas, one of our favorite AWM Hand-Picked Selections!

Like Parcelas, Angosto Tinto is a terrific match for steaks, game, and lamb. Thanks to the polished tannins, it'll also do nicely with grilled chicken, duck confit and will positively sing alongside a hearty meat lasagna or a selection of cured meats and hard cheeses.