Sòtil 2022

Sòtil is a red blend of the native Mallorcan grapes Callet and Manto Negro, made by Mesquida Mora in the Vino de la Tierra de Mallorca. Bàrbara Mesquida and Jaume Mora have run the estate since 2004, farming biodynamically with minimal intervention and using animal drawn equipment in the vineyard. Callet and Manto Negro are island specialities suited to the warm Mediterranean climate and the limestone rich soils of the Balearics; both tend to give moderate alcohol, fresh acidity and a savoury, herbal character rather than heavy power, and here the wine settles at a balanced 13.5 percent. The biodynamic, low intervention approach keeps the wine transparent to its place. It is aged for twelve months in French oak, where gentle oxygen exchange softens the tannins and frames the fruit without dominating it. Expect a medium bodied red, a fragrant nose of red berries, cherry and plum over dried Mediterranean herbs and a stony, earthy edge, and a fresh, savoury palate with fine tannin and a peppery finish. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees, lightly cooled, with grilled pork, poultry or vegetable dishes.