Laus Crianza 2021

Bodegas Laus makes this Crianza in D.O. Somontano in Aragón, a Bordeaux-style blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, the poppy on its label borrowed as a symbol of resilience. Somontano sits in the foothills of the Pyrenees, where altitude and cool mountain nights give a wide diurnal range that slows ripening and preserves acidity and aromatic freshness, conditions that suit the international Bordeaux varieties well. Merlot brings round, ripe red fruit and Cabernet Sauvignon adds structure, blackcurrant and a herbal edge. The wine ages eight months in French and American oak, where slow oxygen exchange softens the tannins and adds vanilla and toast over the fruit. It pours a bright red. The nose shows ripe cherry and plum with vanilla, toasted oak and a touch of black pepper and spice. The palate is medium bodied and fresh, with supple tannins, balanced acidity and a clean, savoury finish that reflects the cool Somontano climate. This is an easy, food-friendly take on the Bordeaux blend. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. It suits grilled red meat and cheese.