Mendall Espartal 2023

Espartal is a varietal Garnacha from Mendall, the Terra Alta estate of Laureano Serres Montagut, a forceful advocate of natural winemaking who farms six hectares in this high, dry corner of inland Catalonia. Garnacha thrives on the chalky soils of the plateau, where altitude and cool nights preserve acidity and freshness in a grape that can otherwise turn heavy. The wine is made naturally, with native-yeast fermentation, no additions and minimal sulphur, so it shows the grape and the place without correction. Ageing is split between three months in amphora and four in stainless steel. The porous earthenware permits a slow, gentle exchange with air that softens the wine and adds a savoury, mineral texture, while leaving no oak character, and the steel locks in the bright fruit. The colour is a clear, vivid red. The nose offers fresh red berries and cherry with a touch of plum, lifted by a peppery, herbal and earthy note. The palate is fresh and fruit driven, the tannins fine and supple, the acidity lively, the finish clean. Enjoy it young and lightly chilled. Serve at 14 to 16 degrees. It is a flexible match for light, savoury food.