Atrium Merlot 2024

Atrium Merlot is a varietal red made by Torres, the long-established Catalan house based at Vilafranca del Penedès. It is grown in D.O. Penedès, where the Mediterranean climate is moderated by the influence of the sea and the higher inland terraces. The wine is made entirely from organically farmed Merlot, a variety that ripens well in Penedès and gives soft, fleshy fruit. The grapes are picked when ripe and fermented after harvest. The wine then spends six months in new Nevers French oak barrels, a shorter ageing in tight-grained wood that firms the structure and adds spice and vanilla while keeping the fruit fresh and forward. The Mediterranean climate, with warm days and the cooling effect of the coast, ripens the Merlot fully while the soils, a mix of clay and limestone, lend body and a savoury edge. The colour is a deep cherry red. The nose shows ripe plum, black cherry and red berries with dried herbs and a light vanilla from the oak. The palate is medium to full bodied and rounded, with supple tannin, good freshness and a clean, savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. It pairs well with roast lamb, grilled beef and mushroom dishes.