Suertes del Marqués 7 Fuentes 2021

Suertes del Marqués 7 Fuentes comes from the Valle de la Orotava in Tenerife, in the Canary Islands, an unusual and dramatic wine region where vines grow on clay loam soils of volcanic origin. The blend of Listán Negro and Tintilla is drawn from several plots between 350 and 700 metres of altitude, with different orientations and vines ranging from eight to a hundred years old. The Atlantic setting and altitude give a cool growing season that keeps the wine fresh and light, while the volcanic soils lend a savoury, smoky minerality. Each plot is fermented separately in temperature-controlled stainless steel, then the wine is aged eight months in French Allier oak barrels and eight months in concrete vats, where the inert concrete builds texture through slow oxygenation without adding oak character. The colour is a bright, light red. The nose is delicate, with red fruits, cherry, a floral note, black pepper, dried herbs and a smoky, volcanic edge. The palate is light and fresh at 13%, with gentle tannins, lively acidity and a clean, savoury finish. Serve at 14 to 16 degrees, with a light chill if you like. It suits poultry, pork, mushrooms and meatier fish.