Joan d’Anguera L’Hostal 2017

Joan d'Anguera L'Hostal is a single variety Carinena from D.O. Montsant in Catalonia, made by the family winery that farms biodynamically under brothers Joan and Josep Anguera. The fruit comes from the higher reaches of Montsant, a granite and slate ringed appellation that wraps around Priorat. Altitude is decisive here: the cooler air on the upper slopes preserves acidity and freshness, balancing the warm Mediterranean ripening and holding the alcohol to a moderate 14 percent. Carinena is naturally high in acid and tannin, and the stony, low yielding soils add a firm, mineral grip. Biodynamic farming keeps the soil alive and is reflected in the wine's pure, savoury character. Ageing runs an unusually long thirty six months in used French oak, vessels chosen for slow oxygen exchange and texture rather than fresh wood flavour, so the tannin softens and integrates while the fruit and the terroir remain to the fore. The colour is deep ruby. The nose shows red berries and plum over black pepper, liquorice, dried herbs and stony earth. The palate is structured and fresh, with firm, fine tannin and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees in a large glass. It suits roast lamb and game.