Aljibes Cabernet Franc 2018

Aljibes Cabernet Franc is made by Los Aljibes at Finca Los Aljibes in Chinchilla de Montearagón, Albacete, and bottled under V.T. Castilla. The estate sits at almost 1,000 metres on limestone soils with little organic matter, and the high, extreme continental climate holds yields low and ripening slow. That altitude and cool nights suit Cabernet Franc, a variety that keeps its acidity, its red-fruited character and its herbal, peppery signature when it is not over-ripened. The wine spends sixteen months in French oak, which firms and rounds the tannins and adds a light spice and toast through slow contact with the wood. At 13.5 per cent it stays fresh and medium bodied rather than heavy. It is bright ruby. The nose shows red currant and red berries with black pepper, dried herbs and a leafy, tobacco-like note that is typical of the grape, over an earthy base. The palate is structured and savoury, the tannins fine-grained, the acidity lively, finishing long and clean. This is a classic, food-driven style of Cabernet Franc. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. Good with beef, lamb and mushroom dishes. From respectful viticulture.