Comando Pistacho Cadausolo de los Vidrios 2023

Comando Pistacho Cadausolo de los Vidrios is a collaboration between independent winemaker Nacho Martínez, known as Pistacho, and the Comando G winery in the Sierra de Gredos foothills of Madrid. This is granite country, where decomposed granite soils and altitude give Garnacha a lighter, more fragrant character than the warmer plains, with fresh acidity and an almost saline minerality. The wine is made naturally, with respectful agriculture, and built mainly on old-vine Garnacha alongside Morate and a little white fruit. What sets it apart is the ageing: nine months in used French oak barrels, which softens the wine, adds a gentle toasty depth and lends a fuller texture without imposing strong oak flavour. The barrel time and the higher alcohol of 14.5 per cent give this a vinous, gastronomic style rather than a simple summer pink. It shows red berry and cherry fruit, white peach and a herbal, faintly toasted edge. The palate is dry and broad, with fine acidity, a savoury mineral thread and a long finish. Serve at 10 to 12 degrees in a white wine glass. Treat it as a light red and pair it with roast chicken, pork and grilled meaty fish.