Can Rafols dels Caus 2023 'Terraprima' Negre, Penedes DO (Massis del Garraf)

Vineyard Notes: Grapes for Can Rafols' 'Terreprima' line come from the Mas Sunyer property in Massis del Garraf, the forested mountains in the Penedes that lie about 8km from the Mediterranean Sea. The Mas Sunyer property sits around 200 meters above sea level and like the rest of the area has clay and limestone soils with a high concentration of calcium carbonate. All of Can Rafols' vineyards have been certified organic since the 2013 vintage and there is no irrigation. Can Rafols dels Caus founder, Carlos Esteva, acquired the Mas Sunyer property in 2000 in order to prevent the construction of a quarry in the area which would have had devastating consequences on the ecosystem. For this reason, they named the wines ‘Terreprima’ or ‘land first’.

Winemaking Notes: Pre-fermentative maceration. Spontaneous fermentation with natural yeasts for each variety separately, temperature controlled, in stainless steel tanks. Aged in 300-liter fine-grain French oak barrels and 700-liter fine-grain barrels with the addition of a 500-liter American oak barrel for 6 months. Light fining and filtration, sulphur only on bottling.

Tasting Notes: The wine is a vibrant ruby red of medium intensity. Aromas evolve with red and black fruits, featuring juicy plums, dark cherries, and ripe blackberries, complemented by subtle, aromatic wild herbs and earthy undertones for added complexity. The palate is warm and inviting, offering pleasant juiciness, mineral spiciness, and smooth tannins. This balanced red wine culminates in a medium-long finish.