Grape Variety
Bobal
"boh-BAHL"
Wine Styles
Sparkling
Light White
Full White
Aromatic
Rosé
Light Red
Medium Red
Full Red
DessertAbout Bobal
Origin
Utiel-Requena, Spain
History
Bobal is a dark-skinned wine grape variety native to the Utiel-Requena region in southeast Spain. Its presence in the area dates back to at least the 15th century, with the name deriving from the Latin 'bovale,' referring to the shape of a bull's head, which resembles the tightly packed grape clusters.
Appearance
Tightly packed clusters of dark-skinned berries, often likened to the shape of a bull's head.
Growing Traits
Bobal is well-suited to the dry, continental landscape of Utiel-Requena, thriving at altitudes up to 900 meters. The grape's thick skins and late budding make it resistant to drought and diseases, contributing to its versatility in producing deeply colored rosé wines and even sparkling wines.
Wine Characteristics
Body
4/5
Sweetness
1/5
Tannin
5/5
Acidity
5/5
Alcohol
3/5
Medium to full-bodied with a robust and structured profile, offering depth and concentration. Dry, with minimal residual sugar, focusing on intense fruit and earthy flavors. High tannin levels, providing firm structure and significant aging potential. High acidity, contributing to freshness and longevity, balancing the robust tannins. Moderate alcohol content, typically ranging between 11.5% and 13.5%, ensuring balance and drinkability.
Taste Profile
Blackberry
Pomegranate
Licorice
Black Tea
Cocoa Powder
Bobal wines are characterized by flavors of blackberry and pomegranate, complemented by notes of licorice, black tea, and cocoa powder. The high acidity and medium tannins provide a balanced structure, leading to a medium-bodied and dry finish.
Food Pairing
Bobal's high acidity and tannic structure make it an excellent match for hearty, protein-based dishes like roasted rabbit or a chargrilled sirloin steak. It also pairs well with traditional Valencian paella, complementing the rich flavors of the dish.
Growing Regions
Spain
Utiel-RequenaManchuelaRibera del Júcar
Notable Wines & Producers
Finca Terrerazo
Bodega Mustiguillo
Bobos Finca Casa la Borracha
Bodegas Hispano+Suizas
Bobal FAQ
Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Bobal?
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Utiel-Requena, Spain
Is Bobal wine full bodied?
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Bobal has a body level of 4 out of 5. Which means that Bobal is Moderate to Full bodied.
Is Bobal wine dry or sweet?
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Bobal has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Bobal is Dry.
Where is Bobal wine from?
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Utiel-Requena, Spain
Where is Bobal grown?
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Bobal is grown in Spain (Utiel-Requena, Manchuela, Ribera del Júcar).
What is Bobal like?
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Bobal wines are characterized by flavors of blackberry and pomegranate, complemented by notes of licorice, black tea, and cocoa powder. The high acidity and medium tannins provide a balanced structure, leading to a medium-bodied and dry finish.
What does Bobal pair with?
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Bobal's high acidity and tannic structure make it an excellent match for hearty, protein-based dishes like roasted rabbit or a chargrilled sirloin steak. It also pairs well with traditional Valencian paella, complementing the rich flavors of the dish.
What does Bobal taste like?
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Bobal wines are characterized by flavors of blackberry and pomegranate, complemented by notes of licorice, black tea, and cocoa powder. The high acidity and medium tannins provide a balanced structure, leading to a medium-bodied and dry finish.
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