Finca Antigua Cabernet Sauvignon 2022

Finca Antigua sits in D.O. La Mancha, between the provinces of Cuenca and Toledo, founded in 2003 by the Familia Martínez Bujanda. This wine is a single-variety Cabernet Sauvignon from the estate's Las Mateas vineyards, planted at around 865 metres. Altitude is the key to balance here: on the high Castilian plateau the days are hot but the nights turn cold, and that diurnal swing slows ripening, keeps acidity firm and holds the wine to a moderate 13.5% alcohol. The poor, free-draining soils restrict vigour and concentrate the fruit. The wine is aged for six months in American oak barrels, a measured spell that rounds the tannins and adds a soft spice and vanilla frame while leaving the varietal character of the Cabernet in front. The colour is deep cherry red. The nose shows blackcurrant, ripe cherry and the leafy, herbal note typical of Cabernet, with a peppery lift. The palate is medium to full, with fresh acidity, fine-grained tannins and flavours of dark fruit, red currant and a touch of oak spice on the finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. It pairs well with grilled steak and roast lamb.