Les Aubaguetes 2023

Les Aubaguetes is a Priorat red from D.O.Q. Priorat made by Álvaro Palacios in Gratallops, a blend of Garnacha and Cariñena with a small share of white grapes. The name means the shady areas and refers to north facing plots in Bellmunt del Priorat where the sun strikes less directly and a sea breeze cools the vines, slowing ripening so the fruit keeps freshness and balance in a hot, dry region. Priorat's signature licorella slate forces the roots deep for water, keeping yields low and carrying a stony, mineral character into the wine. The grapes are fermented on their skins to build colour and structure, then the wine is aged twenty months in French oak, where slow oxygen exchange softens the tannins and frames the fruit with subtle spice. It is deep and attractive in colour, the nose offering ripe black fruit and red berries with black pepper, dried herbs and a savoury, earthy edge, the palate full bodied and structured yet balanced by that cooler site freshness, with firm minerally tannins and a long finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees and decant ahead. It suits grilled red meats and game.