Mas Oller Pur 2024

Mas Oller Pur is a young red from D.O. Empordà, in the northeast corner of Catalonia where the vineyards sit between the Mediterranean and the foothills, raked by the cold Tramontana wind. The estate works a patchwork of clay, sand and slate soils, and the maritime exposure with that drying north wind keeps the fruit healthy and concentrates flavour while holding acidity. Garnacha leads the blend, filled out by Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, all picked ripe at 14.5% alcohol. The wine sees only three months in French oak, enough to settle the tannins without covering the fruit, so the emphasis stays on the grapes and the place. The colour is deep cherry red. The nose shows ripe red and black berries, fresh cherry and a peppery, herbal lift of Mediterranean scrubland. The palate is round and juicy with supple tannin, a savoury earthiness and a clean, lightly spiced finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees, in a standard red glass. It works well with grilled meats and stews where its ripe fruit and gentle structure can carry the dish.