Viña Zorzal Malayeto 2024

Proyecto Zorzal works from Corella in Navarra, founded in 1989 to revive the region's indigenous grapes, and Malayeto is their single Garnacha from a distinctive site at Fitero. The vineyard sits at 512 metres on rocky, stony ground of clays, limestones and conglomerates, under a continental climate. Altitude and poor stony soils keep yields modest and the wide day to night temperature swing extends the ripening period, locking in acidity and aromatic freshness while the fruit reaches full maturity. Alcoholic fermentation is followed by twelve months in used French oak, chosen so the barrel adds slow oxygen exchange and texture rather than overt toast, letting the variety and the site speak. The colour is bright ruby. The nose is savoury and composed, with dark cherry and red fruit set against undergrowth, dried herbs and a stony, almost austere minerality. The palate is medium bodied and well balanced, the red fruit framed by gentle tannins, fresh acidity and a peppery, earthy lift through a long finish. Serve at 16 degrees. It works well with roast lamb, grilled pork and dishes built on mushrooms or pulses.