# Alges (2019)

- **Producer:** Clos Pons
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Tempranillo, Grenache, Syrah
- **Region:** Catalonia, Spain
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €13
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cherry, plum, blackberry, black pepper, liquorice, vanilla, cedar, toast, cloves, leather, tobacco, forest floor

## About this wine

Clos Pons is a distinguished estate located in the Les Garrigues subzone of the Costers del Segre appellation in Catalonia, Spain. The winery is deeply integrated into the rugged, high-altitude landscape of L'Albagés, where olive trees and vines coexist. This region is characterized by its extreme continental climate, marked by hot days, cool nights, and very low rainfall. Clos Pons focuses on expressing this unique terroir through sustainable viticulture, crafting wines that reflect the strength and character of the stony, nutrient-poor soils of the area.

## Interesting facts

- The name 'Alges' is a clever portmanteau of L'Albagés, the Catalan village where the Clos Pons estate and vineyards are situated.
- The vineyards sit at high altitudes of up to 700 meters, experiencing dramatic diurnal temperature shifts that preserve fresh acidity.
- Clos Pons practices sustainable viticulture, respecting the arid, olive-tree-dominated landscape of Les Garrigues.

## Food pairing

The robust structure, moderate tannins, and vibrant acidity of this blend make it an exceptional partner for rich, savory meats and earthy dishes. The oak integration complements roasted or grilled flavors, while the acidity cuts through fat.

## Wine making process

The grapes for Alges are hand-harvested from selected parcels to ensure optimal ripeness and quality. Upon arrival at the winery, the fruit undergoes temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel tanks to preserve its vibrant primary fruit character. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for approximately 9 months in a combination of French and American oak barrels of first and second use. This careful aging process integrates the tannins and adds subtle spicy complexity without overwhelming the fruit profile.