This is the most curious and unique of Pala's new releases. The 2013 Bovale Essentija is made with a rare and relatively unknown grape that is native to this sun-kissed island in the heart of the Mediterranean: pre-phylloxera Bovale vines grown in sandy soils with volcanic layers deep underground. The vines range from 40 years in age to a whopping 120 years old. The bouquet is a bit sharp and brambly in places with cassis, licorice, tar and smoke.