Montombra 2019

Montombra comes from Ramon Jané, the grower and oenologist behind Mas Candí, who farms organically in the Arboçar area of Avinyonet del Penedès within the coastal Garraf massif. Monastrell is a thick-skinned, late-ripening variety that thrives in the warm, dry, limestone-rich soils here, where sea breezes off the Mediterranean temper the heat and extend the growing season. The wine is aged for seven months split between stainless steel and barrel, the steel preserving fresh fruit and the wood adding structure and a slow oxidative softening of the tannins. Minimal intervention farming and winemaking keep the focus on site rather than additives. The colour is deep garnet. The nose shows dark plum and red berry with savoury pepper, dried herb and a leathery, earthy edge typical of Monastrell from coastal Catalonia. The palate is structured and dry, with firm but ripe tannin and good freshness running to a savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees, decanting briefly to open the aromatics. It pairs well with grilled lamb, beef and earthy mushroom dishes.