Serrat de la Plane, Côtes des Catalanes 2018

Wine description for Serrat de la Plane Côtes des Catalanes 2018 by Georg Meissner

Colour & Appearance

Muted garnet red with mahogany-coloured reflections at the rim. Oily, slowly flowing streaks bear witness to concentration and substance.

Nose

An aromatic fireworks display of black cherries, dark plum paste and candied black olives. These are joined by rosemary, liquorice, cedarwood and frankincense. A subtle hint of green pepper and Mediterranean herbs lends the bouquet a refreshing, slightly herbal facet – typical of Grenache from wind-exposed higher elevations.

Palate

Fleshy, juicy and of impressive precision. The pronounced tannin is present, but never dominant, embedded in an invigorating acidity structure. This is original Grenache in its purest form: concentrated, but not overloaded, powerful, but not heavy. A wine with character and backbone.

Finish

Long and spicy with lingering notes of dark fruits, Mediterranean herbs and a fine minerality that bears witness to the stony terroir.

Terroir & Origin

The name says it all: Serrat de la Plane – „stony plateau“ in Catalan. The old Grenache vines stand on dry, stony gneiss weathered soil, exposed to the wind. Extreme conditions that, with tiny yields of just 9 hl/ha, lead to extraordinary concentration. Georg Meissner has preserved these vineyards from grubbing up – fortunately for lovers of authentic Roussillon wines.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Grenache from old vines, vinified with great care and commitment. The moderate alcohol content of 13% vol. is remarkable for this region and bears witness to cool nights and controlled ripeness.

Food Recommendations

This powerful wine demands equally intense dishes: Braised beef shin with root vegetables, lamb tagine with dates and olives, or also aged sheep’s cheese with rosemary and dried black olives. The wine’s Mediterranean aromatics harmonise perfectly with the cuisine of the south.

Special Features

A rescue project with soul: Georg Meissner preserves not only old vines, but also a piece of Catalan wine heritage. The 2018 vintage shows that great wines don’t need 14% alcohol or more – finesse and terroir expression count for more.