Ferrer Bobet Selecció Especial 2020

Ferrer Bobet Selecció Especial is a Priorat red made by Bodega Ferrer Bobet, and in this vintage it is a single-variety Cariñena rather than the usual blend with Garnacha. The grapes come from century-old vines planted on the steep terraced slopes known locally as costers, in one of the highest and coolest parts of the appellation. The defining soil is the licorella, the slate and quartzite that forces vine roots deep through the rock and gives Priorat wines their mineral grip and special character. Very old Cariñena at low yields on poor slate produces small, concentrated berries with firm tannin and bright acidity, while the cool, elevated site preserves freshness against the warm regional climate. The wine ages eighteen months in French oak, which rounds the structure through slow oxygen exchange and adds a measured spice and toast frame over the fruit. It pours an intense cherry red and shows ripe blackberry and black plum with crushed herbs, pepper, liquorice and a smoky, stony minerality. The palate is full and firmly structured with a long, savoury, mineral finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanted an hour ahead. Good with roast lamb and grilled red meat.