Peña El Gato Natural 2023

Juan Carlos Sancha farms 5.5 hectares organically in the Najerilla valley of Rioja Alta and has led the recovery of the area's old grape varieties. Pena El Gato Natural comes from the same old Garnacha vineyard as his Garnacha Vieja, but the fruit is left to ripen longer for a fuller, riper style. Rioja Alta sits at altitude with a cool Atlantic influence, so even at full ripeness the wine keeps freshness and lift, while the old vines give low yields and concentrated fruit. This is a natural wine, made with minimal intervention and suitable for vegans, and it ages on its lees, the spent yeast cells adding texture and a savoury depth as they break down. It pours a bright red, with aromas of ripe red berries, cherry and plum over wild herbs, pepper and a touch of liquorice. The palate is round and fruit driven at 15 percent, with soft tannin, a stony freshness and a clean savoury finish. Serve at 16 degrees, with no decanting needed. It is versatile at the table, from roast pork to game birds.