Merlot, Sumoll, Grenache & Syrah, Alella, Catalunya, Spain

We saw this sultry Spanish red from former chemist Oriol Artigas across the room and really liked it’s vibe, y’know? Artigas is a radical force of the Spanish natural wine scene, working with old vineyards in coastal Alella, a little-known and literally little appellation north of Barcelona, breezed by the Mediterranean. Here with a new bottling, this old vine blend was partially direct pressed and fermented whole cluster in inox, then aged in tank and bottled without fining, filtration or added sulphur. Plummy, earthy and herby with big-bodied depth in an irresistibly fresh, medium-bodied package – grenadine, cassis, cherry stem and satsuma zest with tangy acid, lightly floral tannins and a touch of spice. Put a light chill on it and pair it with spicy tomatoes.