MontRubí Serres Velles Garnatxa 2021

Serres Velles comes from Heretat MontRubí in the Alt Penedès, an upland zone with a long vine-growing tradition that was reshaped by phylloxera at the start of the 20th century. The name points to old vineyards, and the wine is built around old-vine Garnacha Tinta whose low yields and deep roots concentrate flavour. The high inland altitude brings a wide diurnal range, warm days for ripeness and cool nights that lock in acidity and aromatic freshness. Farming is organic and the wine is certified vegan. After fermentation it spends six months in French oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange softens the tannins and adds a measured frame of spice and vanilla without masking the fruit. The colour is deep garnet. The nose opens with concentrated fruity aromas of blackberry and dark red fruit, followed by pepper, liquorice and dried herb. The palate is intense and powerful, with ripe tannin, warming alcohol at 13 percent and a long, spiced finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees, decanting to let the wine open. It suits roast lamb, beef and roasted root vegetables.