El Reventón La Reina 2023

El Reventón is a project in D.O. Cebreros, on the Ávila side of the Sierra de Gredos, where Garnacha Tinta grows on decomposed granite at altitude. The coarse, free draining granite soils hold little water and force the vines to work, while the high elevation brings a wide diurnal range that slows ripening and locks in acidity and aromatic detail. The fruit is farmed sustainably and worked gently. Ageing runs for eleven months split between concrete and used barrels, the concrete preserving primary fruit and freshness while the seasoned wood softens the texture without adding obvious oak. The result is pale to medium ruby, with a nose of fresh red cherry, wild strawberry and dried mountain herbs over a faint earthy minerality. The palate is light bodied and bright, the tannins fine and the acidity lively, finishing clean and savoury rather than heavy. This is high altitude Garnacha built for drinking rather than long cellaring. Serve at 14 to 16 degrees, in a standard red glass, and it suits roast chicken, grilled pork and mushroom dishes.