Forlong Tintilla 2021

Bodega Forlong farm organically in the warm coastal interior of Cadiz, IGP Cadiz country better known for Sherry. Tintilla de Rota is an old Andalusian variety with thick skins and deep colour, well suited to the heat reflected off the chalky albariza soils that hold moisture through a long dry summer. The grapes ripen fully here, which explains the wine's depth and its 14.5 percent alcohol, while cool Atlantic nights preserve enough acidity to keep the fruit defined. After fermentation the wine spends eighteen months in a mix of tank and barrel. The tank time settles the wine and protects its primary fruit, while the barrel ageing softens the tannins through slow oxygen exchange and adds a layer of spice and toast without burying the variety. The result is deeply coloured, with a nose of ripe plum, blackberry and liquorice over earth and cedar. The palate is full and structured, with firm tannins, dark chocolate and a peppery, savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees and decant young bottles for half an hour. It suits roast lamb, grilled beef and aged sheep's cheese.