Serras del Priorat 2023

Serras del Priorat is the early-drinking red of Clos Figueras in the D.O.Q. Priorat, in Catalonia. It blends Garnacha, Cariñena and Syrah with a recent addition of Cabernet Sauvignon for extra aromatic depth. The defining feature of Priorat is its llicorella, a slate and quartzite soil that retains daytime heat and forces the vines to root deep, yielding low quantities of concentrated, mineral fruit. Hot Mediterranean days tempered by cooler nights keep the acidity intact. The grapes are picked by hand and sorted before fermenting in 25-hectolitre vats with two pump-overs a day, followed by a two-week maceration that draws colour and tannin from the skins. Malolactic fermentation softens the acidity, and the wine then spends seven months in used French oak, a short, gentle ageing that adds structure and a little spice while keeping the fruit fresh and primary. It is deep ruby in the glass. The nose shows red berry and plum fruit, black pepper and wild thyme over a stony, mineral edge. The palate is full and firm, with grippy tannins and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees with grilled lamb or roast meats.