Bodegas Mas Alta Black Slate La Vilella Alta Vi de la Vila Priorat Grenache Blend 2015

One of the best buys from Spain we've discovered.  Limited. previous vintage 95 points Robert Parker:  "This is a joint venture between famed Rhône négociant Michel Tardieu, his oenologist Philippe Cambie and importer Eric Solomon. From the area of Priorat known as the Vilella Alta, these are high-density vineyards planted more than 1,000 feet above sea level. The vines average between 15 to 60 years old. The final blend of the Black Slate is 60% Grenache, 35% Carignan and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, all aged for one year in French oak (60% new and 40% one-year-old). The color is inky/bluish/purple. The wine offers up notes of blueberry and blackberry liqueur mixed with wet rocks, spring flowers and graphite, followed by a full-bodied, dense, multidimensional wine with fabulous intensity, loads of burgeoning complexity and a precise and lush feel to the palate. Tannins are present, but silky and well-integrated. This is a seamless, beautifully made wine that sells for a song, considering the quality and complexity it possess. Drink over the next 5-8 years." Bodegas Mas Alta is a joint project with renowned Rhonenegociant and winemaker, Michel Tardieu, and noted Frenchenologist, Philippe Cambie. It is located in the middle of D.O.C.Priorat, based in the village of Vilella Alta. The estate vineyardsare high density plantings at approximately 1050 feet above sealevel, in front of Serra del Montsant, a mountain range thatreaches 3300 feet. Very steep and abrupt, the altitude,inclination, and slopes make a decisive influence on grape'smaturity. The vineyards of La Viella Alta are situated on steepslopes of slates alongside of what once was the river ofEscaladei. The heat of south-facing vineyards combing with thecooler north-facing parcels to create a well-balanced wine withripe fruit and softness.

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