El Hombre Bala 2022

El Hombre Bala comes from the western hills of the Madrid wine region, made by Uvas Felices in collaboration with the Comando G team that has redefined high-altitude Garnacha in the Sierra de Gredos. The fruit is drawn from old vines between 50 and 90 years of age, spread across four farms in three villages west of the capital. The vines grow on granitic soil at around 1000 metres, farmed biodynamically. Altitude is the key: the harsh, high climate and granite soils slow ripening and give a Garnacha that is pale, fresh and aromatic rather than heavy, holding firm acidity and a savoury minerality. The wine ages ten months in French oak barrels, used to support the fruit rather than mark it, with slow oxidation rounding the fine tannins. The colour is bright and light. The nose is perfumed, with red cherry and raspberry, a floral note of rose and a peppery, herbal edge. The palate is fresh and energetic, with delicate tannins, vivid acidity and a long, mineral, peppery finish. Serve at 14 to 16 degrees, lightly chilled. It suits roast poultry, game birds and earthy mushroom dishes.