Can Blau El Nen del Celler 2023

Can Blau El Nen del Celler comes from D.O. Montsant in Catalonia, a project of the Juan Gil family whose winemaking began in Jumilla in 1916 and has since spread across Spain. Montsant rings the more famous Priorat and shares much of its character, with vineyards on a mix of clay, limestone and the licorella slate that gives the region's reds their mineral edge. This is a young wine, blending Cariñena and Garnacha, the area's traditional varieties, with Syrah and Tempranillo. It is made without oak ageing, so the focus stays on fresh, primary fruit and the savoury minerality of the soils rather than wood spice. The moderate twelve percent alcohol and the bright acidity keep it light and easy on its feet. It pours a vivid medium ruby. The nose is fragrant with red berries, cherry and plum, lifted by black pepper and a dried-herb, garrigue note. The palate is fresh and juicy, with soft tannins, lively acidity and a stony, savoury finish. Serve lightly cool at fourteen to fifteen degrees. Good with charcuterie, grilled meats and tomato-based dishes.