Pepe Mendoza Casa Agrícola Fierroca 2024

Pepe Mendoza grows Fierroca at the top of the Abargues estate in the Pla Lliber of inland Alicante, on the iron-rich, rocky soils laid down in the Triassic period that give the wine its name and its mineral signature. The grape is Giró, the local name for a Garnacha-related variety, here from low-yielding old vines. The altitude and the wide day-to-night temperature swing of this inland site slow ripening and preserve acidity, while the iron and stone in the soil press through as a savoury, mineral grip. Fermentation is followed by ten months in barrel, where slow oxygen exchange through the wood rounds the tannin and adds a fine, spiced frame without burying the fruit. The colour is deep ruby. The nose carries red berries, plum, black pepper, dried herbs and a clear stony, earthy edge. The palate is full bodied and structured, the tannin firm and mineral, the acidity fresh, the finish long and savoury. This is a serious, limited-production red. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanted ahead, with roasted meats and earthy dishes.