Albet i Noya Lignum Negre 2023

Albet i Noya Lignum Negre is an organic Penedès red made by Albet i Noya, the Catalan family estate that has farmed organically since 1979 and is now run by the fourth generation. It blends Cabernet Sauvignon, Garnacha and Merlot grown across plots studied for orientation and altitude. Inland Penedès rises from the coast toward higher, cooler sites, and the limestone and clay soils, combined with the day to night temperature swing, slow ripening and keep acidity in balance with the warm Mediterranean fruit. Cabernet supplies blackcurrant, tannin and backbone, Merlot adds plush plum and roundness, and Garnacha brings red fruit and warmth. The wine ages nine months in French Allier oak, which firms the tannin and adds cedar and a measured spice while the fruit stays in front. Malolactic fermentation rounds the acidity into a smoother texture. It is deep ruby with a violet rim, showing aromas of blackcurrant, plum and ripe black fruit over cedar and sweet spice. The palate is full bodied and structured, with firm but ripe tannin, fresh acidity and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanting an hour ahead. It pairs with grilled beef, roast lamb and mushroom dishes.