La Conreria Voltons 2020

La Conreria d'Scala Dei works the slate terraces of the DOQ Priorat, carrying on the vineyard tradition the Carthusian monks of Scala Dei established eight centuries ago. Voltons blends Cariñena and Garnacha grown on llicorella, the broken slate and quartzite soil that defines Priorat. Llicorella is poor and stony, forcing roots deep for water and giving the wines their hallmark mineral grip and dark concentration, while the steep terraces and hot, dry summers ripen the grapes fully and the cool nights hold the acidity. After fermentation the wine ages twelve months in oak, where slow oxygen exchange knits the tannin together and adds spice and a smoky depth. It is deep, dark ruby. The nose is intense, with ripe plum and black cherry over black pepper, liquorice and a stony, earthy minerality. The palate is full and structured, the Cariñena bringing firm tannin and freshness, the Garnacha lending plush fruit, all carried by the slate-driven grip through a long, savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanted an hour ahead, in a large glass. It suits roasted and grilled red meats.