De Cellers Sant Rafel Xavi

Glimmering cherry red. It is hard not to compare the contents of the bottle to the beautiful label, but the packaging does emote the feeling of the wine. There are aromas of spring time, tart berries, fresh florals, bits of spice and pebbles after a rain. The majority of the blend is Grenache, with about a third Merlot. Grenache is one of two main red varietals in Montsant, the other is Carignan. The introduction of international grapes, like Merlot, puts a modern spin on classic wines. Joana is plush and soft on the tongue, slick tannin and popping acidity. Solid structure and medium bodied, carrying fresh and lively red fruit flavours with hints of crushed violet and a mineral finish. Local Catalonian dishes will never disappoint and the freshness of Joana would pair well with grilled chicken, hard Spanish cheeses, or simply on its own.