Mascorrubí Captirot 2019

Mascorrubí Captirot is a Garnacha and Sumoll blend from Heretat Mascorrubí in D.O. Catalunya, the project of Ernest Pérez-Mas, who left telecoms to champion native varieties and sustainable farming. Sumoll is a high-acid local grape that brings freshness and grip, balancing the generous, fleshy character of ripe Garnacha. The vineyards are farmed organically on Mediterranean soils under warm, dry conditions, with the work geared to coping with extreme weather and holding freshness as the climate warms. The wine spends ten months in oak barrels, which rounds the tannins, adds a measured spice and vanilla framing and lets the two varieties knit together. It is deep ruby, with an intense nose of ripe strawberry, red currant and dark plum over black pepper, dried herbs and a touch of liquorice. The palate is full and ripe, carrying its 14.5 per cent with firm but supple tannins, dark and red fruit and a long, savoury, spiced finish. Serve at sixteen to eighteen degrees, decanted ahead if young. It pairs naturally with roast and grilled red meat and richer vegetable dishes.