Gotes del Montsant 2022

Gotes del Montsant is a red from D.O. Montsant made by Alfredo Arribas at Portal del Priorat, an equal blend of Garnacha and Cariñena. The grapes come from vineyards set between 300 and 700 metres above sea level, on calcareous clay and slate soils with south-east and east facing aspects. The vines average 40 years old, which keeps yields low and the fruit concentrated. Altitude and the wide diurnal swing of this rugged inland zone ripen the late Cariñena fully while preserving acidity, and the slate subsoil, the same licorella that defines neighbouring Priorat, lends a mineral, smoky cut and helps the vines find water. The harvest is done by hand into small 16-kilo crates to keep the fruit intact. After fermentation the wine ages eight months in French oak, enough to soften the firm Cariñena tannins and add spice without burying the fruit. The colour is deep ruby, the nose offers dark plum and red berries over black pepper, liquorice and a stony, smoky note. The palate is full bodied at 14 percent, with firm tannins, bright acidity and a long mineral finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees. It suits grilled and roast red meat.