Viña Zorzal Graciano 2023

Viña Zorzal Graciano is made by Bodegas Zorzal in Corella, D.O. Navarra, a family winery established in 1989 to revive the region's native grape varieties. This is single-variety Graciano, a deeply coloured, high-acid grape, from estate vines over 30 years old in the Ombatillo area, harvested by hand into small boxes. The continental climate of Navarra, with warm days and cold nights, suits Graciano's naturally firm acidity and aromatic character. A brief pre-fermentation maceration at 8 degrees draws out aromatic potential before alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel at a controlled 22 to 24 degrees, with an eight-day maceration on the skins to build colour and structure. The wine then ages nine months on its lees in barrel, where the lees contact adds texture and roundness while the wood softens the tannin through gentle oxygen exchange. The colour is deep, youthful red. The nose shows ripe forest fruit, with pepper, dried herbs and a savoury, earthy edge. The palate is fresh and vibrant, with firm fine tannin and the bright acidity that marks the grape. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees. It suits grilled meats, roast lamb and pork.