Cosmic Vinyaters, the project of Salvador Batlle, connects two very different Catalan landscapes: the high, rugged Alt Empordà around Agullana and the warmer Baix Penedès. Working with old vines and minimal intervention, Salvador’s wines are all about place, energy and letting the vineyard speak.

Encarinyades is a wonderfully unusual expression of Carignan, made from a blend of Carignan Blanc, Carignan Gris and Carignan, bringing together the different colours and expressions of the variety.

Textural and savoury, with yellow fruit, citrus, wild herbs, spice and a gently grippy finish. There is freshness underneath it all, but also the earthy, Mediterranean character that makes Cosmic so compelling.

A proper Appellance bottle: obscure variety, old vines, minimal intervention and plenty of personality.