2022 Herència Altés Garnatxa Negra

100% organic Garnatxa Negra (aka Grenache). 15–30-year-old vines. Hand harvested, 24-hour pre-fermentation cooling, partially destemmed, crushed, natural yeast fermentation in concrete tank, 15-day maceration with daily pigeage (punch downs). Aged 9 months 50HL Austrian oak foudres, vegan. By mixing old and young vine fruit and fermenting in concrete, Nuria is able to create an affordable, lively, and elegant version of Garnatxa showcasing the delicate Pinot side of the variety.

Bursts with aromas of ripe red cherries, blackberries, and fresh raspberries, with subtle floral hints of violet and rose petal. There are also delicate undertones of Mediterranean herbs and spices such as thyme and black pepper. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied, with a silky texture and lively acidity that keeps it fresh and balanced. Flavors of juicy blackberries, dark cherries, and a touch of red plum dominate, followed by a hint of earthy minerality and gentle spice on the long, smooth finish. The tannins are soft and integrated, making this wine approachable in its youth yet structured enough for short-term aging.

Nuria Altés, like many young vintners in Spain, comes from a family who has grown grapes for generations. Tucked away in a remote corner of Catalunya, Nuria’s new project, Herència Altés, is situated outside the village of Batea, in the DO of Terra Alta. Remarkably Terra Alta is one of the largest wine-growing regions in Cataluyna and one of which few are aware – something Nuria has set about changing. Growing up among the vines that her grandfather tended, Nuria has known these vineyards since childhood and decided in 2010 to purchase grapes from her father to make her wines. She is assisted by her partner Rafael de Haan, and together, they inaugurated a new cellar for the 2016 vintage located in her hometown of Batea.