Familia Nin-Ortiz La Rodeda 2022

Familia Nin-Ortiz make La Rodeda in D.O.Q. Priorat, where Ester Nin and Carles Ortiz farm to biodynamic and organic principles. The grape is Garnacha Peluda, the hairy-leaved Garnacha whose downy underside helps the vine resist heat and drought, well suited to Priorat's exposed slopes. Roots work down through llicorella, the region's fractured slate, which holds little water and drives the vine deep, concentrating flavour in small berries. The Mediterranean warmth ripens the fruit fully while altitude and cool nights hold the acidity and keep the aromatics fresh. The wine is aged in wood, where measured oxygen exchange firms the tannins and adds a fine savoury frame around the fruit rather than overt oak. It shows a bright ruby with a garnet edge. The nose leads with wild red berries and cherry over thyme, dried herbs and black pepper, with a smoky mineral lift behind. The palate is structured and saline, the tannins firm but ripe, the garrigue character carrying through a long, earthy finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanted ahead, with roast lamb, grilled beef or a mushroom and herb dish.