Petit Siós 2023

Petit Sios is made by Costers del Sio in Balaguer, in the county of Noguera within the Costers del Segre appellation of Catalonia. It blends Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache, all grown in the estate's own vineyards. Those vineyards sit at around 310 metres on shallow soils poor in organic matter, and low fertility soils like these naturally limit vigour and concentrate the fruit, while the altitude brings cool nights that keep acidity fresh. The climate is Mediterranean with continental influences, giving warm ripening days and a wide day to night temperature swing. After fermentation the wine spends four months in French oak barrels, a short maturation that rounds the tannin and adds a light touch of spice and vanilla while keeping the fruit in the foreground. Tempranillo leads with red fruit and structure, Cabernet adds backbone and cassis, and Grenache brings warmth and roundness. The colour is a bright cherry red. The nose shows red berries and plum with a light peppery, herbal edge, and the palate is medium bodied and approachable, with soft tannin and a fresh finish. Serve at 16 degrees with grilled meat and everyday dishes.