Bobal

Bobal is a variety of Vitis vinifera, a red grape used in winemaking. It is native to the Utiel-Requena region in Valencia, Spain. The presence of Bobal in Utiel-Requena was documented in the 15th century in "Espill o llibre de les dones" by Jaume Roig. The name derives from the Latin bovale, in reference to the shape of a bull's head. It is grown predominantly in the Utiel-Requena DOP where it represents about 80% of the red grapes vines grown, and is also present in significant quantities in Valencia, Cuenca and Albacete. It can only be found in small quantities in other regions of Spain: La Manchuela (Castilla–La Mancha), selected vineyards in Ribera del Guadiana, Alicante, Murcia, Campo de Borja, Calatayud, Cariñena, Valdejalón. In 2015 there were 61,524 hectares (152,029 acres) in Spain, making Bobal the second most common red grape variety in Spain. Small quantities are also grown in Rosellón (south of France) and in Sardinia (Italy). The best wines are deep, soft color. Bobal has traditionally been used for the production of bulk wine, but producers working in higher altitudes than 800 metres (2,625 feet) above sea level, as Bodega De Moya are taking this variety more seriously.