Can Ràfols dels Caus Petit Caus Negre 2023

Can Ràfols dels Caus farms the Garraf Massif, a rocky upland north of Barcelona within D.O. Penedès, where the soils are shallow and rich in limestone. Those calcareous soils hold water poorly and reflect heat, which keeps acidity firm and gives the wine its mineral cut. The climate is dry and sunny with cooling sea breezes off the nearby Mediterranean, so the fruit ripens slowly and retains freshness. Petit Caus Negre blends Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Syrah and spends eighteen months in tank rather than oak. Stainless steel ageing seals out oxygen and preserves primary fruit, so the wine keeps its bright colour and varietal aromatics without any wood influence. The result is a medium ruby red with aromas of red berries, cherry and plum, lifted by the herbal, peppery side of the Cabernet Franc and Syrah. The palate is fresh and supple, with light tannin, savoury earth and good acidity carrying a clean finish. Farming is organic. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees, in a standard red glass; no decant is needed. It suits charcuterie, roast chicken and tomato based pasta.