Los Acilates 2019

Los Acilates is a red from D.O. Ribera del Guadiana, made by the Palacio Quemado project, a venture begun in 1999 by the Losada Serra family and the Alvear winery. The fruit comes from a single plot, also called Los Acilates, set on steep slopes with calcareous soils. Limestone-rich soils like these drain well and retain less heat, which helps preserve freshness and lend a savoury, mineral character in a warm inland climate. The wine is made from native varieties of the region and aged for around twelve months in French oak, then rested a further twelve months in bottle before release. The barrel ageing softens the tannins through slow oxygen exchange and adds a frame of vanilla and spice, while the bottle time allows the wine to settle and integrate. The colour is deep cherry red. The nose shows ripe plum and cherry, sweet oak spice, dried herbs and an earthy note. The palate is medium to full bodied at 14% alcohol, with rounded tannin, ripe dark fruit and a savoury, lightly spiced finish. Serve at 17 degrees. It suits roast and grilled meats.