El Marciano 2023

El Marciano is a natural red from Bodegas Alfredo Maestro, a single-varietal Garnacha grown high in the Sierra de Gredos in Ávila at 1,150 metres above sea level. The terroir defines it: the plot faces south, the soil is granite bedrock with sand on the surface, and at this altitude the cool nights and intense daytime sun give slow, even ripening that keeps acidity fresh and the aromatics floral despite the warmth. The vines are 70 years old, their low yields concentrating the fruit. Alfredo Maestro farms naturally, using no herbicides or chemical fertilisers and intervening little in the cellar. The harvest is by hand, around 80 percent of the grapes are destemmed, and the wine is made without oak ageing, which keeps the fruit bright and primary and lets the granite character of high-altitude Gredos Garnacha show through. It is bright cherry red. The nose shows red berries, cherry and a floral rose lift with black pepper, dried herbs and a stony earthiness. The palate is medium bodied and fresh, with juicy fruit, crisp acidity and fine, light tannins. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees, lightly chilled, with roast poultry or charcuterie.