Clos Mogador 2022

Clos Mogador is one of Priorat's defining estates, the first wine to gain Vino de Finca status in the appellation, made by René Barbier in the rugged hills of Catalonia. It is a blend of Garnacha and Cariñena with Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, grown across steep terraced slopes of llicorella, the local slate and quartz soil that forces vines to root deep for water and gives Priorat reds their signature concentration and mineral grip. The climate is hot and dry, but the steep orientations and poor soils naturally limit yields, producing small, intensely flavoured berries. The grapes are fermented separately in wood, steel and concrete before the wine is aged eighteen months in French oak, where slow oxygen exchange through the barrel firms the structure and knits the components together. Farming is sustainable. The colour is deep garnet. The nose is complex, with ripe red and black fruit, black pepper, liquorice, a smoky note and a stony, mineral undertone. The palate is full and powerful at 15.5%, with firm tannins, fresh acidity and a long, mineral finish. Serve at 17 to 18 degrees, decanted well ahead. It suits grilled red meat and game.