2016 Cara Nord Trepat: A Delicious Mountain Wine

When I'm wine shopping, I'm always on the look out to experience new grapes, new wine regions, new styles, and more. There's so much to explore in the wine world and I want to be a vinous adventurer. So, when I was recently at Bin Ends in Needham, I found the 2016 Cara Nord Trepat ($16.80), a Spanish red wine produced from Trepat, an indigenous grape. My previous experience with Trepat is extremely limited, having enjoyed it only once as the major component of a Cava Rosé. So, I wanted to experience Trepat for the first time in a red wine. 

The Cara Nord Celler, which was founded by three friends/winemakers, is located in the Denomination of Origin Conca de Barberà, in central Catalonia in the north of the Tarragona Province. "Cara Nord," which translates as "North Face," reflects the fact that their vineyards are located on the north face of the Sierra des Prades Mountains, at an altitude of about 800 meters. The vineyards are exposed to intense climatic conditions, with harsh winters and short summers. It's certainly a challenging area for vineyards. 

 

Historically, the Conca de Barberà was known for its white wines, but that has changed, and now the region primarily produces red wines, especially from Trepat, an indigenous grape. In general, Trepat produces wines that are light, fruity, and slightly acidic. Cara Nord practices sustainable agriculture, and "prioritizes the conservation and biodiversity of the forests that surround the vines, enabling an integrated and sustainable organic approach." Their wine making philosophy is also minimal intervention. 

The 2016 Cara Nord Trepat was fermented in a stainless steel tank, and then aged for an additional ten months in the tank, seeing no oak aging. With a 12.5% ABV, the wine is a dark red, almost purple color, with a pleasant nose of red fruits and the hint of herbs. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied and complex, with plenty of flavors of cherry, strawberry and ripe plum, with herbal accents and subtle earthy notes. A moderately long and satisfying finish. Interesting and delicious, indicative of the potential of Trepat. This would be an excellent wine with grilled meats or even just pizza. Highly recommended. 

Have you tasted a Trepat wine before?