Més que Paraules Negre 2022

Més que Paraules Negre is a red from D.O. Catalunya, produced by Jaumandreu from a blend of the local Mandó with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The inland Catalan vineyards sit on stony soils under a Mediterranean climate tempered by cooler nights, a diurnal swing that slows ripening and helps the grapes hold acidity and aromatic detail. Each variety is picked and fermented separately so its character can be judged before blending. The fruit is macerated for around a month at controlled temperatures, drawing colour and tannin gently from the skins, then fermented spontaneously over roughly two weeks at 25 degrees in stainless steel, which keeps the fruit clean and primary. The wine then spends twelve months in French oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange softens the tannins and adds a measured layer of spice and vanilla. It is deep ruby with a violet rim. The nose shows dark plum, cherry and blackcurrant from the Cabernet, with pepper, liquorice and a savoury, earthy undertone. The palate is medium to full, with firm but ripe tannins, fresh acidity and an oak-framed finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. It suits grilled red meat and roast lamb.