Vall Llach Priorat 2022

Celler Vall-Llach was founded in the 1990s at Porrera in the DOQ Priorat, in Catalonia, and works through controlled microproduction of small estate parcels. This Priorat is a blend of Cariñena and Garnacha grown on the slate and quartz soils known locally as llicorella, the defining terroir of the appellation. These mineral-rich slate soils force the roots deep in search of water, giving low yields of concentrated fruit and lending the wines their characteristic mineral, savoury depth. Priorat's hot, dry climate ripens both grapes fully, with Cariñena supplying structure, acidity and dark fruit and Garnacha adding warmth and red berry generosity. Ageing for 14 months in French oak barrels refines the firm tannins through gradual oxygen exchange and frames the fruit with spice rather than heavy oak. The wine is deep, dark red, with a nose of blackberry, strawberry, candied red fruit, dried herbs and a peppery, spicy edge. The palate is powerful and full at 15 percent, with grainy tannin, a stony mineral undertow and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanting an hour ahead. It suits grilled and roast red meats.