Abadal 3.9 2021

Abadal 3.9 is a Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah blend from the Roqueta family winery in Santa Maria de Horta de Avinyó, in the small Catalan appellation D.O. Pla de Bages. The vineyards sit in an inland basin where forest and vine share a microclimate of contrasts, with warm days and notably cool nights. That diurnal range helps the two grapes ripen their dark fruit while holding acidity and freshness, and gives the wine its balance of ripeness and lift. Cabernet Sauvignon brings firm structure and blackcurrant depth, Syrah adds pepper, dark berry fruit and a savoury edge. The wine is aged for twelve months in a mix of French and American oak; the French casks lend fine grained tannin and spice while the American oak adds a rounder sweetness of vanilla and coconut, and the slow oxygen exchange through the wood softens the tannins. Expect a deep red, a nose of dark plum, red berries and pepper over sweet oak spice, and a structured, savoury palate with a thyme like herbal note and a long finish. Decant and serve at 16 to 18 degrees with grilled and roasted meat.