Treinta Mil Maravedíes 2023

Treinta Mil Maravedíes is a Garnacha from Bodegas Marañones in D.O. Vinos de Madrid, drawn from the winery's own plots in the granite hills of the Sierra de Gredos. The soils are decomposed granite with a sandy texture, fresh and deep but poor in organic matter, which keeps yields low and pushes the roots down for water. The vines are 30 to 70 years old and farmed organically. On arrival the bunches undergo a cool pre-fermentation maceration to draw out colour and aroma, then ferment without de-stemming, so whole-cluster stems lend structure and a peppery lift. The wine is aged ten months in French oak, enough to round the tannins while keeping the fruit clear. Granite-grown Garnacha of this kind tends towards perfume and freshness rather than weight. The colour is bright cherry red, the nose offering red berries, black pepper, thyme and a savoury earthiness, with a touch of liquorice. The palate is medium bodied, with fresh acidity and fine, dusty tannin running to a herbal finish. Serve at 16 degrees. It suits roast lamb, game birds and mushroom dishes.