Costers de Cornudella 2021

Companyia Vitícola Sileo was founded in 2013 by Penedès winegrower Agustí Torelló with his son and sister, to interpret the terroir around Cornudella de Montsant in Catalonia. This wine comes from old vines of Garnacha Tinta and Cariñena grown at 500 to 700 metres above sea level, the altitude bringing cool nights that retain acidity and freshness in a warm Mediterranean climate. Montsant's soils mix clay, limestone and patches of the licorella slate found in neighbouring Priorat, which forces the old vines deep and concentrates the fruit while lending a stony, mineral edge. Low yields from old vines build depth and structure. The wine ages 12 months in French oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange and gentle toasting round the tannins and add a measured spice and vanilla. The colour is deep ruby. The nose shows ripe red berries, plum, liquorice and dried herbs over a peppery lift. The palate is full and warm, with ripe, firm tannins, good freshness from the altitude and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. It suits grilled meats and stews.