# Saó Abrivat (2018)

- **Producer:** Mas Blanch i Jové
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Tempranillo, Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon
- **Region:** Catalonia, Spain
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €17
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** raspberry, cherry, plum, blackcurrant, vanilla, toast, cedar, cloves, dried fig, leather

## About this wine

Mas Blanch i Jové is situated in La Pobla de Cérvoles within the DO Costers del Segre in Catalonia, Spain. The estate's vineyards are located at an elevation of 700 meters above sea level, benefitting from high-altitude diurnal temperature swings and clay-limestone soils. A key distinction of the winery is 'La Vinya dels Artistes' (The Artists' Vineyard), an initiative where contemporary sculptures by renowned artists are integrated directly into the vineyard landscapes. The winery operates with a strong environmental commitment and is powered entirely by solar energy.

## Interesting facts

- The estate vineyard doubles as an open-air contemporary museum featuring large-scale outdoor sculptures.
- The word 'Saó' in Catalan refers to earth's optimum moisture, while 'Abrivat' translates to vigor and spirit.
- The winery facility runs on 100% solar power for energy sustainability.
- Awarded a Gold Medal at the Catavinum World Wine & Spirits Competition 2021.

## Food pairing

The structured tannins, mountain-driven acidity, and medium-plus body require dishes with rich protein or savory depth. Dense meats like lamb and beef balance the tannin structure, while earthy mushrooms and fruit reductions mirror the complex oak and berry flavor profiles.

## Wine making process

The grapes are harvested by hand in small 20 kg crates from vines averaging 25 to 30 years of age with low yields of 3,500 kg/ha. Vinification takes place under strict temperature control between 28°C and 30°C, followed by a 20-day maceration period on the skins. The wine undergoes maturation for 12 months in oak barrels consisting of 42% new French oak and 58% American oak with light and medium toast levels.