2022 Terroir Sense Fronteres Vertebra de la Figuera, Montsant

Lovely reduction leads the nose with some grapefruit, blood orange, pomegranate and wild berries. Juicy and fluid on the palate with a medium body and lovely firmness to the tannins. A wine that will help you digest with its bright acidity and fresh tannins. Drink now.

93 points jamessuckling.com

High in the windswept mountain village of La Figuera, Terroir Sense Fronteres crafts wines that feel raw, pure and deeply connected to the landscape. This project is led by Dominik Huber, also known for his work at Terroir al Límit in neighbouring Priorat, with a philosophy centred on minimal intervention, whole bunch fermentation and a transparent expression of site. Vertebra de la Figuera comes from old Garnacha vines planted on limestone soils at significant altitude, where cooler conditions shape a style of Montsant that is far more lifted and finely etched than many expect.

A bright ruby crimson with translucent edges hints at the wine’s elegance. Aromas unfold with wild strawberry, red cherry and blood orange layered with dried thyme, rose petal and a subtle dusty mineral note that evokes the rugged hillsides. There is an almost Pinot like perfume here, fragrant and airy yet quietly complex.

The palate is vibrant and textural, flowing with juicy red berry fruit, pomegranate and gentle spice framed by fine tannins and lively acidity. A stony mineral thread carries through the long, graceful finish, giving the wine energy and drinkability rather than weight. While immediately captivating, it will continue to develop savoury nuance and dried herb complexity over eight to twelve years in the cellar.

This is a Garnacha made for rustic Mediterranean tables and soulful evenings. It pairs beautifully with grilled lamb cutlets, roasted eggplant with herbs, tomato braised rabbit or chargrilled chorizo. Vertebra de la Figuera captures the wild charm of Montsant at altitude, perfect for fireside gatherings, shared plates and moments where authenticity and atmosphere take centre stage.