Bàrbara Forés El Quintà 2023

Bàrbara Forés El Quintà is a white from this family winery in Gandesa, in D.O. Terra Alta, made from Garnacha Blanca, the grape that defines the appellation. The estate spreads 22 hectares across differing altitudes and orientations, and farms with natural products and organic manure. Terra Alta sits high and inland, and the altitude brings cool nights that offset warm days, so the grapes ripen fully while holding freshness, which is why the wine reaches 14.5 per cent yet stays balanced. El Quintà is aged for six months in 500 litre French oak barrels. The larger format gives a gentler oxygen exchange and less overt wood flavour than a standard barrel, adding texture and a light toasted note while leaving the fruit in front. Garnacha Blanca is naturally full bodied and low in aromatics, so the ageing builds breadth rather than perfume. The colour is bright, and the nose leans towards ripe peach, apricot and a touch of honey over subtle oak. The palate is broad and dry, with weight balanced by acidity and a savoury, textured finish. Serve at 11 to 13 degrees in a full white wine glass, with white fish, roast chicken, pork or roasted roots.