When one thinks of Priorat, no other name shines quite like that of Alvaro Palacios.
Alvaro Palacios “Camins del Priorat” Priorat 2007 (Catalonia, Spain)$24
The young producer literally transformed the wines of this region when he hit the scene in the early nineties. Though he also runs his family estate in Rioja and has a joint venture with his brother in Bierzo, it was in the mountainous, arid terrain of Priorat just 60 miles from Barcelona that his name came to light. His now legendary “L’Ermita”, a 100% Garnacha made from a coveted vineyard site of vines planted between 1900 and 1940 is widely considered one of the stars of Spain.
He credits much of his understanding of “the importance of great wines” from his time spent studying enology in Bordeaux while working under Jean-Pierre Moueix at Chateau Pétrus. Alvaro has always leaned more towards natural winemaking techniques, harvesting extremely low yields, limiting filtration, and omitting the usage of pesticides. He also has been moving away from using international varieties in his wines, opting to stick to his historic native grapes.
His “Camins del Priorat”, the newest addition to his line, is a blend of Carignan, Grenache, Cabernet, and Syrah. Although produced from younger vines, this powerful and elegant wine is not at all lacking in character and like his entire repertoire, has received well deserved praise.
Taste “Camins del Priorat” and Susana Balbo “Crios” Torrontes 2009 from Salta, Argentina with Phil Cooper from Polaner Selections, this Friday from 5:30pm!
Alvaro Palacios “Camins del Priorat” Priorat 2007 (Catalonia, Spain)
$24
Susana Balbo “Crios” Torrontes 2009 (Salta, Argentina)
$18
PRIORAT AND TORRONTES TASTING
Friday, June 11
5:30-7:30pm
Tasting is free. Reservations are not required. For more information please contact 212-725-6516 or info@vinosite.com.