Loxarel Amaltea 2023

Loxarel Amaltea is a red from D.O. Penedes in Catalonia, made by the Loxarel winery from vines on the Can Mayol estate at Vilobi del Penedes, at about 300 metres of altitude. It blends Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, farmed biodynamically with manure applied every four years to feed the soil. The altitude tempers the Mediterranean warmth, with cooler nights that hold the acidity and keep the alcohol to a moderate 13.5 percent, while the three varieties supply red fruit and suppleness, structure and cassis, and a plush, rounding core in turn. The harvest is done by hand and the grapes are destemmed and macerated in stainless steel at a controlled 10 degrees, a cold soak before fermentation that draws gentle colour and aroma from the skins while keeping the fruit fresh. Ageing then runs ten months in Hungarian oak, a tighter grained wood that lends a restrained vanilla and spice frame and softens the tannin through slow oxygen exchange. The colour is bright ruby. The nose shows plum, red berries and cherry over vanilla, black pepper and dried herbs. The palate is medium bodied and balanced, with fine tannin and a savoury finish. Serve at 16 degrees in a Bordeaux glass. It suits roast lamb and pork.