Salta Muros Tinto 2021

Salta Muros is a small natural project by Catarina Bento and David Prata working in the Beiras of central Portugal, a granite country of old, mixed vineyards. This red is a co-planted field blend built on Rufete and Bastardo, both light skinned, perfumed varieties that give freshness and delicacy rather than weight, at a modest twelve and a half percent alcohol. The granite soils drain freely and the altitude brings cool nights, which together preserve acidity and the floral, red fruited aromatics of the grapes. Everything is farmed and made naturally, with whole bunches and native yeast, and the wine ages ten months in barrel, used oak that softens the texture while leaving the fruit and herbs in the foreground. The colour is pale cherry red. The nose is fresh raspberry and cherry with a green herbal note and a touch of white flowers. The palate is light and energetic, with fine tannin, bright acidity and a savoury, stony finish. This is a red to serve cool. Pour it at 13 to 15 degrees with roast chicken, grilled pork or a plate of charcuterie.