Mas Alta La Vilella Alta Black Slate Priorat 2017

Sale $19.99

Buy 6 or more pay $17.99 net

90 pts Wine Advocate (although I think it is better...)

I opened this side by side with 3 other Black Slate Priorats, including a 93 and a 94 pointer. To my taste, this was the best of the bunch. Then why the lower rating by WA? Simple! Luis Guitierrez, the reviewer, prefers his Priorat with less of an oak influence and concentration. This gem is made by Michel Tardieu and Philippe Cambie, both known for their hedonistic style. Always take into account the reviewer's style preferences when looking at ratings. What can I say? I was in a hedonistic mood, I guess... 93-94 pts for sure...

What I find compelling about this wine is how wonderfully seductive it is, yet when you delve into it, it reveals layers and layers of complexity. It starts with an explosion of aromas - spring flowers, lavender, and black raspberries - that give way to a dense mouthful of fruit. Cherries, raspberries, blackberries and currants... Now here's where it gets interesting, because despite the richness of fruit, the wine never seems "fruity." The fruit is balanced by savory tannins and Priorat's classic minerality, along with a hint of anise and smoke. There's enough fruit to pair with things like burgers, lamb kebobs, Hunan beef and the like, but also enough class and substance to hook up with more distinctive fare like leg of lamb or braised oxtail.

“This has the signature of Michael Tardieu and Philippe Cambie, the winemakers behind this wine; it's a ripe and heady Priorat red produced with 50% Garnacha, 30% Cariñena and 10% each Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah with a full-bodied palate and plenty of tannins. This is a powerful wine to lay down or enjoy with powerful food."


Or reply. The wine will be available Wednesday in both stores, as ordered.