Cortijo los Aguilares Pago El Espino 2024

Cortijo los Aguilares Pago El Espino is a red wine from D.O. Sierras de Málaga, made by Cortijo de los Aguilares near Ronda in Andalusia. The estate covers 800 hectares of holm-oak woodland with 19 hectares of vines planted in 1999, set on clay and limestone soils at more than 900 metres altitude. It blends Syrah, Tempranillo and Petit Verdot. The altitude is the key to this southern site, the cool mountain nights preserving acidity and aromatic freshness that would otherwise be lost to the Andalusian heat, while the limestone subsoil adds grip and a mineral line. Farming follows integrated agriculture, avoiding herbicides and respecting the surrounding woodland. The wine ages for fifteen months in French oak, which knits the tannins together and adds a savoury layer of spice and toast without overwhelming the fruit. It shows a deep colour and aromas of ripe black fruit, black pepper and liquorice over a smoky, mineral background. The palate is full and fresh, with fine tannins, dark fruit and a long savoury finish lifted by altitude-driven acidity. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees; it pairs with grilled and roasted meat and game.