El Grifo Tinto Ariana 2023

El Grifo Tinto Ariana is a red from Bodegas El Grifo in San Bartolomé, Lanzarote, a winery founded in 1775 and the oldest in the Canary Islands. It blends Listán Negro and Syrah grown on the island's pre-phylloxera vineyards, where ungrafted vines are planted in pits dug into black volcanic ash and sheltered by low stone walls from the constant trade winds. That dark soil, known locally as picón, absorbs heat and holds the night's moisture, while the porous volcanic ground gives the wine its characteristic smoky, mineral cast. The grapes are aged just four months in French oak, a short time that keeps the fruit fresh and the body light while softening the tannins. The result is a wine of moderate alcohol at 13.3 percent and bright, perfumed fruit. In the glass it is a vivid red. The nose shows fresh red fruits such as cassis and raspberry alongside cherry, a lift of black pepper and a hint of toffee and smoke. The palate is light to medium bodied, juicy and savoury, with soft tannins and an earthy, volcanic finish. Serve lightly cooled at 14 to 16 degrees. It suits roast pork, poultry and grilled vegetables.