Petit Forlong 2022

Bodega Forlong farms organically in the IGP Cadiz, in the heart of Andalusia's sherry country, where the soil is albariza, the famous bright white chalk that holds water through a hot, dry summer and reflects the strong southern sun. Petit Forlong blends Syrah with Tintilla de Rota, an old Andalusian red grape native to the bay of Cadiz that brings dark colour and a fresh acid spine. The maritime influence of the nearby Atlantic moderates the heat and lengthens the growing season, helping the grapes ripen fully while keeping a thread of freshness. Fermentation is followed by six months in oak barrels, a measured spell that rounds the tannins and adds a light smoky, spicy frame without overwhelming the dark fruit. The wine is deep and full bodied, with ripe plum and black cherry, cracked black pepper, dried herbs and a warm, smoky, liquorice tinged finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees and decant young bottles briefly. It works with grilled and spiced red meat.