Luis Pérez Tintilla Carrascal 2023

Bodegas Luis Pérez works in the hills around Jerez in Cádiz, where the white, chalky albariza soils usually grow Palomino for Sherry. Luis Pérez Rodríguez, a former research director and university professor, has instead championed Tintilla de Rota, an old local red variety, and this wine comes from the Carrascal vineyard. Albariza holds winter rain deep in its chalk and reflects sunlight, helping the vines through the dry summers, while the Atlantic westerly winds and sea breeze moderate the heat and keep the grapes fresh. Tintilla is naturally dark and structured, and twelve months in oak barrels rounds the tannins and adds spice and a savoury frame without burying the fruit. It is deep ruby, with a nose of black plum, redcurrant and dried herbs over a peppery, slightly saline note from the chalk soils. The palate is medium to full bodied, firm but supple, with dark fruit, liquorice and a fresh, mineral finish that reflects the cool coastal climate. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, in a large glass, and decant an hour ahead if young. It is built for roast and grilled red meats.