Soca-rel Manto Negro Fogoneu Escursac 2023 2023

Soca-rel is Pep Rodríguez's organic estate in D.O. Binissalem Mallorca, in the Balearic Islands, where he works native island varieties on land he has farmed since the early 2000s. This red brings together three of them, Manto Negro, Fogoneu and Escursac, in a fresh, low-alcohol style that captures the lighter side of Mallorcan wine. The island's warm Mediterranean climate is moderated by sea breezes, and the limestone and clay soils of Binissalem lend the wine acidity and a savoury edge. Farming is organic and certified vegan, following natural rhythms rather than a fixed schedule. The wine is fermented and held six months in stainless steel, with no oak, which keeps the alcohol modest at 11 per cent and protects the vivid primary fruit and floral aromatics. The colour is a bright, light red. The nose is lively, with red berries, cherry and redcurrant over a herbal, faintly floral note. The palate is light and fresh, with juicy red fruit, soft tannin and crisp acidity that makes it thirst-quenching and easy to drink young. Serve at 13 to 15 degrees, lightly chilled. It works with charcuterie, lighter meats and fresh salads.