Swiss Army Knife Red Wine: Foraster 'La Moto'

I’m sure we’ve all been there… it happened to me just last week. The days had gotten away from me, I failed to plan for dinner, and I’m staring at the pantry trying to Iron Chef my way to a tasty meal. The perpetual question of what to eat, (and what to drink!) never lets ups, and so I  made something out of nothing with the hope of a nourishing, refreshing and tasty meal.

Necessity is the mother of invention, and these pantry experiments  often yields surprising and delightful results; something perfect to meet the moment that it gets added to the family cookbook. Today’s offer is like that — a surprising combination of grapes, with delightful results, and something you’ll want to keep around for the moment when you need something versatile for those Iron Chef Pantry meals. This Swiss-Army-Knife of a red wine  will fit just about any situation, and it won’t break the bank!

On our last visit to Mas Foraster, Ricard poured us his newest wine, “La Moto” a new expression of his beloved Trepat. With this bottling, he explained, he experimented with blending in other varieties to complement the elegance of Trepat, and make something approachable and drinkable for everyday. His addition of Grarnacha and Syrah add roundness, fruit and spice the the wine, without covering up the high-toned fressness of Trepat.

That approachability and carefree feeling is expressed in the label, an homage to the vintage motorcycle that is tucked away in the corner of the foyer amongst the old photographs, and ancient farm equipment, that make up the family museum.

Josep Foraster ‘La Moto’ 2024

With a base of 70% Trepat — Ricard's signature focus — the blend is rounded out by 20% Garnacha and 10% Syrah. Ricard macerates the grapes on the skins for an extended 40-day period, then briefly ages in barrel for 4 months before bottling. Trepat's elegance and drinkability are preserved, with the added plushness of Garnacha, and the spice of Syrah.

In the glass are inviting aromas of wild red berries, plum, and hints of wild herb, followed by a silky texture and lengthy finish. It's fresh, a little wild, and delightfully light, with the cool mountain climate of Montblanc keeping the alcohol at a modest 11.5%.

Best of all this is beautifully versatile — flexible enough to pair up and compliment just about anything you throw it at. Perfect to have on hand to elevate your meal next time you’re plating up that weeknight pasta, hearty salad, flat bread or even grilled sausages.