Celler Vinos Piñol, Portal Tinto 2016

Let's just blow this out, okay? I have the last 13 cases of the vintage... 

On Sale for $17.99

That Beats the Best US Price by $6 per bottle! 25% Lower! 

A couple of years ag, we were honored to host Juanjo Pinol. You may not know him, but you most certainly know his wines.  Over the years, we have sold nearly 2,000 cases from his family’s winery, including our top-selling Spanish red – Ludovicus. The Pinol family has been growing grapes in the Terra Alta region of Spain for four generations.

Keep an eye on this region, folks. Terra Alta is located to the south and west of Priorat. Due to its geographical isolation, wines were traditionally only consumed locally. With little pressure to produce for an “international” market, wineries have been able to retain old vines of traditional varieties - Carinena (Carignan), and Garnacha (Grenache) chief among them. Hmmm… old vines you say? Hmmm…

Now, before you think we’ve found the “next” Priorat, you need to understand that Terra Alta is at a higher elevation, resulting in a longer growing season, more vibrant acidity, and lower alcohol (14-14.5% versus as high as 16%!). Additionally, the soil here is limestone versus Priorat’s slate. Limestone? The same soil type found in Burgundy? Ahh… yes… the limestone soil further adds to the wine’s fine acidity, as well as imparting the chalky minerality so famed and prized in great Burgundy.

To all of this, we add the Pinol family’s decades-long commitment to organic farming – a reflection of their passionate appreciation for their land and its heritage. And then we have winemaker Toni Coca - considered one of the finest in all of Europe!

This wine bares more than a passing resemblance to a top-notch Cotes du Rhone, thanks to the Grenache, Carignan and Syrah, yet with a seeming juxtaposition of darker fruit and yet brighter acidity. Ridiculously exotic and expressive aromas practically jump from the glass – boysenberry, blackberries, cherries, anise and flowers – a veritable potpourri of all things good! Then more of that dark, luscious fruit follows, all balanced by bright acidity and fine tannins that cut like a laser through the wine. Simply, this is a spectacular wine, and an amazingly versatile one at that. Medium plus in body, with fine tannins and good acidity, this is an easy match for easy foods – burgers, roast chicken, burritos – yet you can “dress it up” and pair wonderfully with rustic fare like grilled lamb or braised short ribs…. Hmm…

 
Or reply. Available Wednesday afternoon in both stores.