Viña Zorzal Corral de los Altos 2023

Bodegas Zorzal farm this Garnacha near Fitero in Navarra, in the warm lower Ebro basin where their vineyards form a fresher pocket among the surrounding plains. The estate was founded in 1989 to revive the region's native grapes, and works from the principle that the wine is made in the vineyard. Garnacha thrives in this hot, dry climate, ripening to full red and dark fruit, while the cooler nights of the river basin retain acidity and lift the aromatics. The wine spends eleven months in used French oak barrels, which let the fruit lead while softening the tannins and adding a light savoury frame without obvious new-oak spice. It is deep and bright in the glass, with an open, expressive nose of forest fruits, dried herbs and a floral hint of rose and violet. The palate is ripe and rounded, with juicy red fruit, a peppery, herbal edge and a fresh, balanced finish. Serve at 16 degrees in a standard red glass. It is a versatile partner for roast and grilled meats.