Perelada Inspirador Negre 2024

Perelada is a historic estate in the D.O. Empordà, in the north-east of Catalonia where the Pyrenees run down to the Mediterranean. This red is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Garnacha, Merlot, the local Samsó, which is the Catalan name for Carignan, and Syrah, each variety adding to the structure, fruit and aromatic complexity. The region's poor slate and granite soils restrict vigour and concentrate flavour, while the warm, dry climate and the steady Tramuntana wind keep the fruit healthy and ripe. The grapes are vinified separately and the blend then spends three months in French oak barrels, where the tannins begin to soften and the components knit together, with the oak adding a light spice rather than dominating. Vegan in production, the wine balances ripe fruit with savoury, Mediterranean character. The colour is a deep ruby. The nose shows dark plum, black cherry and red berries over black pepper and dried herbs. The palate is medium to full bodied, with ripe, structured tannins, fresh acidity and a savoury, herbal finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees, decanted briefly, with grilled meats.