The very first wines Tom has made from his home in the Empordà are here and what a delight they are.
Rossu is 100% Garnatxa from a single vineyard parcel of 25 year-old vines planted over alluvial sands, flecked with silica, on the low-lying plain of the region. The immediate thing that grabs you is how this soil type enhances the aromas of the wine; here we have all manner of dusty dry spices, bonfire smoke and Mediterranean herbs jumping out of the glass, with a hint of something like eucalyptus floating in there too. A short maceration lends gentle tannins that neatly frame the bright, spicy red fruits and crushed peppercorns on the palate. Fresh, pure, easy to drink, but not lacking complexity, this is one of our favourite expressions of the grape we've enjoyed in some time.
The grapes were completely destemmed and macerated in steel for four days before being pressed off and left to rest for 6 months with just one racking, before bottling in February. The vineyard Tom bought these grapes from is certified organic and is run by a local family who employ elements of the 'no-till' farming philosophy. The earth here has never been plowed - this helps to retain every drop of moisture in this often arid landscape.
