Bernat Oller 2020

Bernat Oller is made by Oller del Mas in D.O. Pla del Bages, an estate set around a renovated tenth-century castle and farmed organically. The blend is mostly Merlot with a small share of black Picapoll, a variety native to the Bages area. The climate here is continental and Mediterranean, marked by low rainfall and strong thermal oscillation, the wide day-to-night swing that ripens the fruit while keeping acidity and aromatic freshness. The fruit comes from different plots across the large estate. Merlot gives ripe plum and a rounded, supple body, while the native Picapoll Negre adds a peppery, herbal lift and local character. Ageing for twelve months in French oak rounds the tannins and adds a measured spice frame through slow oxygen exchange. The colour is a bright medium ruby. The nose shows ripe plum, cherry and red berries over black pepper, dried herbs and an earthy note. The palate is medium-bodied and savoury, with fine tannin, fresh acidity and a clean finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees and decant briefly. It suits grilled pork, roast chicken and mushroom dishes.