# Mineral (2024)

- **Producer:** Cara Nord Celler
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cariñena, Garnacha
- **Region:** Catalonia, Spain
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €17
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cherry, plum, blackberry, black pepper, violet, herbaceous, vanilla, cedar, toast

## About this wine

Cara Nord Celler was founded in 2012 by Tomàs Cusiné, Xavier Cepero, and Eric Solomon, with the goal of practicing heroic, high-altitude viticulture. Sourced from selected vineyards in the rugged DO Montsant, 'Mineral' is a wine defined by its unique terroir. The vines grow in poor, stony soils rich in slate and calcareous clay, surrounded by the dramatic cliffs of the Sierra de Montsant. The high altitude provides a cooler microclimate that preserves freshness and imparts a distinct stony character to the grapes.

## Interesting facts

- Sourced from high-altitude vineyards up to 800 meters above sea level, benefiting from extreme diurnal temperature shifts.
- The name 'Mineral' pays direct homage to the stony, slate, and calcareous soils of the rugged Montsant region.
- A collaboration project involving renowned European importer Eric Solomon and celebrated winemaker Tomàs Cusiné.

## Food pairing

The wine's vibrant acidity, structured tannins, and distinct mineral backbone make it an excellent match for rich, savory meats and earthy dishes. The acidity cuts through fat, while the dark fruit notes complement roasted or grilled flavors.

## Wine making process

The grapes are hand-harvested from high-altitude plots and undergo rigorous selection. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the vibrant primary fruit characteristics and clean mineral expression. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for approximately 6 months in French oak barrels, adding subtle structure, complexity, and roundness to the tannins without overshadowing the fresh fruit profile.