Forlong Terracota 2024

Bodega Forlong farm organically in IGP Cadiz, working the old Andalusian variety Tintilla de Rota on the chalky albariza soils of the region. The Terracota bottling is aged for eleven months in clay amphora rather than oak, a method that shapes the wine in a distinct way. Unfired or lightly fired clay is gently porous, so it allows a slow, micro-oxygenation that softens the tannins much as a barrel would, but it adds no wood flavour, leaving the fruit and the soil character to speak. The albariza soils reflect heat and hold water through the dry summer, ripening the thick-skinned grapes fully, while Atlantic nights keep the acidity fresh. The result is a savoury, medium to full red, deeply coloured, with plum and red berry fruit, dried herbs, liquorice and a clear earthy, stony minerality. The palate is fresh and textural with fine, chalky tannins and a long savoury finish. Serve at 16 degrees. The clay-aged, lower-oak style suits roast lamb, grilled red meat and mushroom dishes.