Priorat
Best Priorat Wines
With over five thousand acres of vineyards stretching towards the horizon, the Catalonian DOQ known as Priorat is a truly magical place. It boasts a completely unique terroir, characterized primarily by a volcanic combination of black slate and quartz, a profile that further splits into several viticultural microcosms. The climate in the area differs from more continental regions in that it receives coverage from both cold northern winds and the warm, eastern Mistral. The rivers Siurana and Monsant bring life to the surrounding valleys, and the soil composition helps anchor the plants, saving them from winds that would cripple the plants in other areas. It’s worth mentioning that the terroir of the area is often expressed through one particular scent, and that is wet pavement. Imagine taking a walk in the outskirts of town, as a gorgeous rainbow arch splits the sky after rainfall. The smell of moisture in the air juxtaposed with warm nostalgia.
These conditions are perfect for the region’s dominant grape varietal, the red Garnacha Tinta. Depending on the winery, you should expect to also encounter Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, and Carignan. The French varietals add a lovely touch of black fruit to any blend they’re in, while the Garnacha and Carignan lean more towards lush red fruit.
This diversity adds to the sense of intrigue during sampling and makes each bottle a completely new and unique journey to drink. The region’s viticultural history dates back to the 12th century, and a developed palate might just allow you to get in touch with a bygone era.