Utiel-Requena is nestled in the hills of the region of Valencia. It can trace its winemaking history back some 2000 years and is an important part of the local economy, although, it has be said, that to find wines that deserved to leave the local economy has been a pretty rare thing for many years. But things are changing, new investment, a new generation and a willingness to recognise that things don't have to stay the same are leading to a bit of an awakening in the Utiel region. The Bodegas de Utiel is very much part of the new forward thinking group of wineries, their vineyards are found at an altitude ranging from about 700 to 900 and sit some 70km from the Mediterranean The climate here is Continental but with calming influences from the Meditteranean, the local wind the Solano as well as the cooler nights that occur in the mountains as opposed to the plains make quality grape growing not only possible, but worthwhile. The main red grape is the Bobal, with Tempranillo and the usual other international grapes also grown, the white is Macabeo, known as Viura in Rioja. Modern farming and winemaking methods are start to reap rewards and after tasting through their Cappellana range I was left with a simple decision to make - bring the wines over. These are delicious, well made wines and unbelieveable value. 2008 CAPPELLANA TINTO 100% Tempranillo. Touch of cassis, black fruits, earthiness in a good way. Well made, good structure, the gentle tannins balance the ripe fruit flavous and clean acidity - this could even be served at cool cellar temperature during the summer months. Good with many foods, certainly barbeques. Terrific value again.