LaRural Ull de Llebre 2023

LaRural is the work of Xavi and Andreu Padró, fifth-generation vintners from the Alt Camp district of Tarragona in Catalonia, who converted their vineyards to organic farming and revived the region's indigenous grapes. This natural wine, made organic and vegan with minimal cellar intervention, blends Ull de Llebre, the Catalan name for Tempranillo, with a portion of the white Malvasía de Sitges co-fermented for lift and perfume. The vineyards sit on limestone and clay soils under a warm Mediterranean climate cooled by sea and mountain breezes that keep the fruit fresh. Made without oak, the wine keeps the pure, immediate character of the fruit, the white grape adding a floral top note and fine aromatic detail to the red base. It pours a bright, youthful ruby. The nose is fresh and floral, leading with red berries, cherry and plum over white flowers, dried herbs and a peppery, earthy edge. The palate is light bodied and juicy, the lively fruit carried by fresh acidity and soft tannins into a clean, savoury finish. This is a red for early, easy drinking. Serve at 14 to 15 degrees, lightly chilled, with grilled pork or charcuterie.