Wines Penedès Torres - Habla Negro - 2018

Viniou Reviews

The Torres Cuvée Habla Negro 2018 from the Penedès DO in Catalonia is a striking expression of modern Spanish winemaking. This red wine is crafted with precision, most likely featuring a blend of traditional Spanish varietals such as Tempranillo, Garnacha, or perhaps international grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, as is common with innovative cuvées in the region. The 2018 vintage benefited from a balanced climate, allowing the grapes to ripen fully and developed pronounced aromas and a robust structure. Vinification at Torres marries tradition and technology, often employing stainless steel fermentation followed by careful aging in French or American oak barrels, imparting subtle complexity and polished tannins to the finished wine.

Penedès, nestled between the Mediterranean coast and the Montserrat mountains in Catalonia, is celebrated for its versatility and pioneering spirit. The region enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate, moderated by cooling sea breezes, which preserves freshness in both red and white grapes. The soils tend to be varied, with limestone, clay, and sand supporting a rich diversity of grape varieties. Historically, Penedès is renowned for its sparkling Cava, but in recent decades, producers like Torres have led a resurgence in high-quality still wines, thanks to innovative vineyard management and a commitment to sustainability.

For food pairings, the structure and depth of this red wine make it an ideal partner for richly flavoured dishes. It would beautifully complement classic Catalan fare such as escalivada (roasted vegetables), botifarra amb mongetes (Catalan sausage with beans), or a slow-cooked lamb stew. It is also well suited to grilled meats, charcuterie, or mature Manchego cheese. For a more international inspiration, consider pairing it with roasted duck breast or aubergine parmigiana.

To fully appreciate the aromatic complexity and smooth texture of the Torres Cuvée Habla Negro 2018, serve it at 16-18°C. Decanting for thirty minutes prior to serving will help the wine open up, releasing its bouquet of ripe dark fruits, subtle spices, and silky tannins. This will ensure a rewarding and expressive tasting experience.