Production
Produced from 100% Garnacha Tinta grapes sourced solely from the Armantes vineyards - two contiguous parcels planted between 1937 and 1942 (and almost 5ha in total). These are north-east facing with marl and limestone soils, at around 850 metres altitude. The grapes are harvested into 20kg cases then stored in a cool room with controlled humidity. They're fermented together in an open-topped fermenter with 20% whole bunches included. Gentle punching down is applied once or twice a day during a long, slow, gentle fermentation - after the grapes have warmed up from their cold soak. Afterwards there is a long maceration, and malolactic fermentation on skins. After pressing, the wine remains sur lie in second use 500 litre, fine-grained French oak barrels for 13 months.
Tasting notes
The nose is still very youthful, deep and complex with constantly evolving aromas from wild red fruits, beets, dried orange peel and a light touch of mountain herbs as the wine opens up. The palate is characterful and nuanced with fine tannins, notes of wild raspberry and earth, and lifted violet characters.
