Viña Somoza Taté 2022

Viña Somoza Taté comes from D.O. Valdeorras in the northwest of Ourense, where the Bibei river carves the gorges that shape the vineyards. The grapes grow on the steep slopes near the Sanctuary of As Ermitas, a cool Atlantic-influenced site of slate and granite soils that drain quickly and force the vines to root deep. The blend draws on native Galician varieties Brancellao, Mencía and Merenzao alongside Garnacha Tinta, fermented together and aged fourteen months in barrel, where measured oxygen exchange rounds the tannins and adds a light spice frame around the fruit. The altitude and the marked day-to-night temperature swing preserve the natural acidity and keep the alcohol moderate at twelve percent. It shows a bright medium ruby. The nose is fragrant with wild red berries, cherry and a stony, earthy minerality, with dried herbs and a peppery note behind. The palate is fresh and medium bodied, the slate giving a savoury cut and fine grippy tannins running into a long, herbal finish. Serve at fifteen to sixteen degrees. A natural match for roast pork, game and mushroom dishes.