12 Volts 2023

12 Volts comes from 4 Kilos, the Mallorca project of Francesc Grimalt and Sergio Caballero, named for the modest sum that founded it. The blend pairs Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon with the island's native Callet and Fogoneu, grown under low-intervention farming with native ground cover and a rich soil life on the warm but breezy terroir of Felanitx. The Mediterranean climate is tempered by sea air, and an early, careful harvest keeps the alcohol down to twelve per cent and the fruit fresh and lifted. Ageing runs for eight months across different barrel types, enough to round the texture while keeping the wine bright and unforced rather than oaky. The colour is a vivid, luminous cherry red, and the nose is floral and red-fruited, with strawberry, blackberry, redcurrant and a peppery, herbal edge from the Syrah and native grapes. The palate is light-bodied and juicy, with crisp acidity, soft tannins and a fresh, savoury finish that makes it easy to drink. Organically farmed and best served lightly chilled at 14 to 16 degrees, it suits lighter meats and vegetable dishes and can take a slight chill in summer.