Perelada Jardins Negre 2025

Perelada is one of Empordà's historic estates, in the far northeast of Catalonia near the Pyrenees. This Jardins Negre, named after the castle gardens laid out in the 19th century, blends Garnacha and Samsó, the region's mainstays, with Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Empordà sits between the mountains and the Mediterranean, swept by the cold, dry Tramuntana wind that keeps the vineyards healthy and the grapes free of disease, while the warm coastal climate ripens the fruit fully. Made as a young wine with little or no oak, it is built to show fresh, primary fruit rather than barrel character, the blend giving Garnacha's warmth, Samsó's structure and colour, and the Bordeaux varieties a firmer backbone. It pours a bright cherry red and opens with blackberry, raspberry and red cherry, framed by black pepper, liquorice and a dusting of dried Mediterranean herbs. The palate is round and juicy, with soft tannins and a warm, spiced finish typical of the region. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees, lightly chilled in summer. It suits grilled meats, tomato based dishes and cured cheese.