Vinyes Domènech Teixar Garnatxa Vella 2019

Teixar is a single variety red from Vinyes Domènech in the D.O. Montsant, Catalonia, made entirely from Garnacha Peluda. This is a hairy leaved mutation of Garnacha Negra, named for the down on the underside of its leaves, and it tends to give wines that are even more subtle and elegant than standard Garnacha. The vines grow on shallow, poor soils of calcareous material with stony patches, low in nutrients and water, which keeps yields small and concentrates the fruit while the limestone base lends freshness and a savoury edge. Montsant's warm days and cool nights ripen the Garnacha fully yet hold its acidity, balancing the 14.5 per cent alcohol. Farming is organic and biodynamic. The wine ages 14 months in French oak, which softens its tannins through slow oxygen exchange and adds a restrained note of vanilla and spice rather than heavy toast. The colour is bright cherry red. The nose shows ripe red fruit, dried herbs, mint and a balsamic, faintly vanilla lift. The palate is fresh and finely structured, with ripe tannins, good depth and a long savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees, decanted. Excellent with lamb and grilled meats.