Celler Alimara is a small 6ha vineyard and winery in Terra Alta, Catalunya, owned by a Scottish couple who had been making wine in England for around 15 years before purchasing the vineyards in 2013. They are committed to making wine sustainably and honestly, looking for an authentic expression of the Mediterranean climate and calcareous clay soils that mark their region. Their vineyards are worked organically according to regenerative principles, aiming to build up the soil health and encourage biodiversity by using no herbicide or insecticide on the property. In the winery they use minimal sulphites and avoid fining and filtration as much as possible (making all of their wines suitable for vegans as well!)
The Estrelles de Batea wines are a pair of great value everyday drinkers, with a real Catalunyan soul and depth of flavour. This fantastic red is pure Garnatxa Negra (Grenache/Garnacha by its Catalan name) fermented in stainless steel before aging 8 months in a large old oak foudre.
It is pale in colour but still packs plenty of flavour, with lovely ripe raspberry and red cherry aromas. The palate is approachable and easy-drinking, with refined tannins and juicy acidity. Lingering flavours of red berries are joined by hints of earthy spice, adding a twist of complexity to this summery red. Try this lightly chilled with a charcuterie board or a pizza, or pair with the tradition Catalan escalivada - a smoky grilled pepper salad topped with anchovies.