Ca N’Estruc L’Equilibrista Garnatxa 2018

Francisco and Anna Martin run Ca N'Estruc at Esparreguera, in the hills west of Barcelona, and L'Equilibrista is their old-vine Garnacha. Farmed organically and biodynamically, the wine draws on low-yielding vines that concentrate sugar and aroma, pushing the alcohol to a ripe 15 percent. Garnacha ripens fully in this warm inland Catalan climate, building plush dark fruit, while the surrounding hills bring cooler nights that keep some freshness in the wine. It is fermented and then aged sixteen months in oak barrels, a long elevage in which gentle oxygen exchange softens the tannin and adds vanilla, spice and a darker, savoury depth. It is deep, saturated ruby. The nose is powerful and very perfumed, with ripe plum and red fruits over black pepper, liquorice, dried herbs and oak spice. The palate is full, ripe and intense, generous in fruit but carried by fine tannin and enough acidity to keep it balanced through a long, warming finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanted an hour ahead, in a large glass. It suits grilled red meats and rich stews.