Terroir al Límit Històric Negre 2022

Històric Negre comes from Terroir al Límit in the D.O.Q. Priorat, a winery built around the conviction that the wine should reflect its place, farmed organically across plots in several Priorat villages. It blends Garnacha and Cariñena, the region's traditional pair, from old vines rooted in Priorat's distinctive licorella, the steep terraces of decomposed slate that force vines deep for water and give the wines their mineral signature. The hot, dry Mediterranean climate is moderated by altitude and cool nights, ripening the fruit fully while preserving acidity. Unusually for Priorat, this wine is aged only in stainless steel, with no oak, so it is fresher and more transparent than the region's typical barrel-aged reds, holding the wine at a restrained 13.5 per cent. The colour is a deep ruby. The nose is pure and savoury, with red and dark berries, crushed dried herbs, black pepper and liquorice over a stony, slate-driven mineral core. The palate is medium to full bodied, firm and energetic, with fine grippy tannin, bright acidity and a long, mineral finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees. It suits roast lamb, grilled red meat and mushroom dishes.