At a glance

Producer

Collbaix Celler el Molí

Region

Pla de Bages, Catalonia, Spain

Grape variety

Blend (primarily Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, with possible Syrah or native varieties)

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$18-25

Tasting profile

Expresses red and black fruits (cherry, plum, blackberry), violet, Mediterranean herbs, subtle oak and spice. Hints of earth and leather with bottle age.

Evolution: Fruit-forward in youth; now developing savory, leathery, herbal, and mineral notes.

At peak: At peak: balance between ripe fruit, spice, and developing earthy complexity.

Structure

Acidity

Medium, provides freshness but mellowing

Tannins

Moderate, softened with some age

Alcohol

Approximately 13.5%-14% ABV

Aging potential

8-10 years from vintage; best before 2026-2028

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2021 to 2025

Optimal window

2020 to 2026

Current status

Drinking well; at or just past peak

Current condition

Mature, with tertiary notes beginning to show; suitable for drinking now but will hold for short-term

This wine is from a reputable organic Catalan estate, showing moderate structure. 2018 vintage has matured well thanks to quality winemaking and balanced weather, but as a mid-priced regional blend, its prime is 4-8 years post-vintage. Expect it to peak between 2021 and 2025, with graceful decline over 2026-2028 if stored well.

Food pairing

Ideal with Catalan sausage, grilled lamb, herb-roasted chicken, mushroom dishes, Manchego cheese, or Mediterranean rice.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — To allow aeration and express mature, subtle earthy and herbal notes, while integrating any remaining oak.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Organic farming, native cover crops, manual harvest, minimal chemical inputs, local natural yeast fermentation, solar energy use, reduction of plastic packaging, recycled bottle glass, eco-friendly corks, strict water conservation via drip irrigation

Collbaix Celler el Molí is a sustainability leader in Pla de Bages. Vineyard and winery are certified organic (CCPAE) and focus on protecting biodiversity through cover cropping and land restoration. Solar panels supply most winery power. Packaging is minimized in weight and uses recycled materials. Water is collected and recycled on-site. As production is mostly consumed locally, transport emissions are reduced. Wine demonstrates best-in-class sustainable credentials for its region and price point—deserving a 9/10 for ecological and carbon awareness.