Azul y Garanza Seis 2021

Azul y Garanza work in a singular corner of D.O. Navarra, drawing on the arid terroir at the edge of the Bardenas Reales, the largest semi-desert in Europe. The blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon is farmed organically in a landscape of poor, stony ground and wide swings between hot days and cold nights. That diurnal range slows ripening and preserves acidity while sugars accumulate, which is why the wine carries both depth and freshness at 14.5% alcohol. The dry climate and lean soils limit yields and concentrate the fruit. After fermentation the wine spends twelve months in oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange softens the tannins and adds spice and a savoury frame without burying the fruit. The result is deep ruby with a purple rim. The nose shows ripe plum, dark cherry and a herbal, dusty edge typical of the high desert. The palate is structured and full, with firm but rounded tannins, flavours of black fruit, liquorice and pepper, and an oak-derived note of vanilla on the finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanting an hour ahead. It suits roast and grilled red meats.