Bimbache Chivo Tinto 2024

Bimbache Vinicola, the project of Rayco Fernandez, works in the far west of the Canary Islands on El Hierro, the smallest and most remote of the islands, lashed by strong Atlantic winds and built on young volcanic rock. The DO El Hierro reds are field blends, and Chivo Tinto draws on the indigenous Canary varieties Listan Negro and Vijariego Negro alongside other red and white grapes grown together. The volcanic soils, dark, porous and free draining, store little water and stress the vines, giving low yields and a distinct smoky, mineral, saline character that runs through Canary wine. The constant ocean wind and the island's altitude keep the climate cool for the latitude, preserving acidity and the bright, fresh red fruit. Farmed organically, the wine is raised for twelve months in stainless steel tanks, with no oak, so the focus stays on pure fruit and the volcanic site. It is a light bodied, deeply fruited red, with raspberry and red cherry, dried herbs and a smoky, salty, earthy lift, finishing fresh and dry. Serve lightly chilled at 13 to 14 degrees. It is a versatile red for the table.