Spain: De Haan Altés - El Convertido Tempranillo 2025, Castilla-La Mancha (Organic, Vegan-friendly)

Grape variety: 100% Tempranillo. Certified organic. 13% alcohol. 

"El Convertido" translates to "The Convert," representing the transition of La Mancha - one of the world's largest wine-growing regions - toward sustainable, organic farming. Many are still to follow but this is a great development in an area known for very high production levels and yields, in some cases on a pretty much industrial scale!

De Haan Altés is a family-owned wine enterprise founded in 2005 by Englishman Rafael De Haan and the Catalan winemaker Núria Altés.

A relatively small producer, they exist only to produce quality; they are known for sustainable practices like using solar power in their winery, and farming only organically. Headquartered in the Terra Alta region of Catalonia, with their estate featuring 50 hectares of organically farmed vineyards, they also work in partnership with organic growers in La Mancha.  

A great organic red for everyday drinking - medium-bodied, smooth, un-oaked, fresh, and fruit-driven. Just the ticket with a BBQ e.g. grilled meats, and with tapas-style dishes. It has Tempranillo's lovely juicy red fruit and earthy spice, yet at an approachable 13% alcohol.