Scala Dei Heretge 2021

Scala Dei Heretge is a single varietal Cariñena from D.O.Q. Priorat, made by the historic Celler Scala Dei in La Morera del Montsant. Priorat is defined by its licorella, a fractured slate the vines must drive their roots deep into to find water, which keeps yields tiny and carries a stony, mineral character into the wine. The slopes are steep and the climate hot and dry, ripening the late maturing Cariñena fully while cool nights hold the acidity that gives the wine its freshness and grip. The fruit is fermented on its skins to build colour and structure, then aged sixteen months in large foudres rather than small barrels, so the slow oxygen exchange rounds the tannins and integrates the fruit without overt oak flavour. It is dark and deep in the glass, the nose showing ripe black fruit with black pepper, dried herbs and a savoury, earthy note, the palate full bodied with a rustic texture, firm minerally tannins, liquorice and a long, stony finish. Serve at 17 to 18 degrees and decant ahead. It suits grilled red meats, game and mushroom dishes.