Los Arrotos del Pendón 2019

Los Arrotos del Pendón is a single-variety Prieto Picudo made by Raúl Pérez, one of Spain's most respected winemakers. The fruit comes from a two-hectare plot at 900 metres above sea level in Pajares de Otero, in León, planted with vines around 110 years old. The high altitude gives a wide diurnal range, holding acidity while the fruit ripens, and the very old vines yield small crops of concentrated, balanced grapes. The bunches are fermented whole, with the stems, which adds structure, freshness and a savoury, spiced lift. The wine is then aged for 24 months in used French oak barrels, where the older wood allows slow evolution and integration without heavy oak flavour. The colour is deep, dark ruby. The nose shows black plum, cherry and black pepper over liquorice and a stony, earthy note. The palate is full bodied and firmly structured, with grippy tannin, fresh acidity and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 17 to 18 degrees, decanting an hour ahead. It suits grilled red meat and game.