# Plana d'en Fonoll Syrah (NV)

- **Producer:** Sant Josep Vins
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Syrah
- **Region:** Catalonia, Spain
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €12
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackberry, plum, black pepper, fennel, herbaceous, smoke, vanilla, cloves, leather, forest floor

## About this wine

Plana d'en Fonoll Syrah is crafted by Sant Josep Vins, the winemaking branch of the Agrícola Sant Josep cooperative founded in 1962 in Bot, Tarragona. Although the vineyards are located within the Terra Alta region, this wine is released under the DO Catalunya appellation to showcase the expressive potential of international grape varieties like Syrah in this Mediterranean climate. The cooperative focuses on sustainable viticulture, preserving the unique terroir of the region while delivering modern, approachable wines.

## Interesting facts

- Although grown in the heart of DO Terra Alta, this wine is classified as DO Catalunya to allow the expression of 100% Syrah.
- Produced by Agrícola Sant Josep, a historic cooperative in Bot founded in 1962.
- The name 'Plana d'en Fonoll' refers to the local plains where wild fennel ('fonoll') historically grew alongside the vines.

## Food pairing

This medium-to-full-bodied Syrah pairs exceptionally well with roasted and grilled meats, where the wine's moderate-to-high tannins cut through the fat. The dark fruit profile and subtle herbal notes complement dishes featuring rosemary, thyme, or dark fruit reductions.

## Wine making process

The Syrah grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness from selected vineyards in Bot. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the vibrant primary fruit characteristics. Gentle pump-overs are performed to extract color and soft tannins. The wine undergoes malolactic fermentation and is aged briefly in stainless steel or oak to round out its structure before bottling.