Marmellans Negre

Marmellans Negre comes from D.O. Montsant in Tarragona, made by Celler de Capçanes, a cooperative founded in 1933 by families from the village of Capçanes. It blends Garnacha at 60 percent with Cariñena at 40 percent, from old vines between 30 and 60 years old planted on clay and granite soils. The granite gives drainage and freshness while the clay holds water through the dry Mediterranean summer, and the old vines naturally limit yields, concentrating the fruit. Both varieties are native to this warm corner of Catalonia, Garnacha bringing ripe red fruit and Cariñena adding colour, acidity and a firm edge. The destemmed grapes are cold macerated before fermentation, a technique that extracts colour and fresh aromatics from the skins at low temperature without harsh tannin. Made in a young, unoaked style, the wine keeps all its primary fruit. The colour is an intense, bright violet. The nose is very aromatic, with cherry and strawberry over a floral lift. The palate has a light entry and a long, supple stride, with pleasant tannins, vibrant fruit and a fresh, cool finish. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees with everyday meals.