Mas Llunes Cercium 2021

Mas Llunes is a family winery in Garriguella, in the D.O. Emporda of northern Catalonia, a region defined by the Tramuntana, the powerful northern wind the Romans called Cercium. Cercium blends Garnacha and Carinena, the Mediterranean grapes of the region, with Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon for added structure and dark fruit. The vineyards sit on slate and granite soils under a warm climate, and the constant wind dries the grapes and keeps yields and disease low, concentrating flavour. This 2021 spent three months in oak barrels, a short ageing that adds a touch of spice and softens the tannin while keeping the wine fruit driven. The colour is deep cherry red. The nose is ripe and expressive, with strawberry, cherry and plum, black pepper and a herbal, garrigue note. The palate is full and warm, with ripe red and dark fruit, rounded tannin, liquorice and a savoury, earthy finish. At 14.5 percent it has Mediterranean weight balanced by freshness. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees with grilled meat, lamb or roast pork.