Formiga de Vellut 2022

Formiga de Vellut is an organic red from Clos Galena, Domini de la Cartoixa, in the D.O.Q. Priorat. It blends Garnacha Tinta, Cariñena and Syrah, all certified organic under the CCPAE. Priorat is defined by its llicorella, a fractured slate and quartz soil that reflects heat by day, holds it at night and forces the vines to root deep for water through the steep, terraced hillsides. That hard won struggle gives small berries with thick skins, concentrated fruit and the wine's characteristic minerality. The harvest is by hand, with each variety fermented separately to keep its identity before blending. The wine spends nine months in French and American oak, where slow oxygen exchange softens the firm slate driven tannins and the barrel lends a light smoke and spice. The colour is deep, dark cherry. The nose carries ripe plum and black fruit, liquorice and a stony, mineral note, while the palate is full bodied and structured, with ripe but firm tannin, fresh acidity and a long savoury finish. At 14.5 percent it stays balanced. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees, decanting young vintages. Built for roast lamb and grilled red meat.