Cara Nord Negre 2022

The Cara Nord (meaning 'the north face of a mountain' in Catalan) wine is a coupage of Grenache, Syrah, and Garrut (Monastrell) varieties, grown in different soils — chalky, clay, slate — combining old vines with younger ones. Most of the vines were planted in the year 2000 at a height of between 700 and 800 metres, in the area of Vimbodí i Poblet. The grapes undergo cold maceration before fermenting at controlled temperatures in stainless steel tanks with native yeasts. The finished wine is then stood to age in different-sized French oak barrels for five or six months before standing in underground concrete tanks for a further five months. Its captivating aromas remind us of eucalyptus and bay leaves (aromas which grow on decantation), soil and ash, juicy wild fruits, scrub-bush, dry flowers, and pepper; somewhat reminiscent of Rhône wines. Year after year, the more primary aromas move aside as the wine gains in complexity and depth; it becomes slightly bitter but still retains its fruitiness. Clear notes of cherry and ash mix with soothing balsamic hints, which are almost medicinal. Juicy and medium-bodied on the palate, with fine tannins and a little minerality, this wine is a very pleasant drink, and easy to interpret. The Cara Nord winery does not include the Trepat, the most well-known variety in the D.O. Conca de Barberà appellation, in this coupage but still achieve a fresh wine with sensations of cold spices.