El Senyal Negre 2017, D.O. Terra Alta Spain
£16.95 – £91.50
Ali & Andy McLeod, originally from Oxfordshire, purchased vineyards at Mas de Cabrera near Gandesa in 2013. Originally established in the 20th century by the Aubanell family, the vineyards are situated at an altitude of around 400m above sea level. The soils in Terra Alta are a mixture of chalk and clay, with a low content of organic material which are now farmed organically. The Mediterranean climate of this region brings ample sunshine which is tempered by two prevailing winds: the Cierzo blowing from the interior and the more humid Garbí coming from the Mediterranean – these influences help to reduce yields and produce fruit-forward concentrated grapes.
Tasting notes
Very floral nose full of lifted ripe strawberries, vanilla fudge, pepper, toasted spice, savoury oak and hints of blackcurrant. The palate is all red fruits with plums and strawberries at the fore. Mouth-filling yet supple and approachable. After an hour in the decanter this wine delivers a wonderful balance of ripe black fruit and savoury notes. There’s a classic restrained feel to this wine, although it has ample levels of ripe fruit that should please the contemporary wine drinker.
| ABV | 14.5% |
|---|---|
| Drink from | 2018 to 2021 |
| Food match | grilled lamb steaks |
| Varietal | Grenache, downy Grenache, Carignan |
| Origin | Spain |
| Producer | Celler Alimara |
| Closure | Cork |
| Decant from | One hour before serving |
