Alvaro Palacios : Finca Dofi 2022

Tank sample. 88% Garnacha, 9% Cariñena, 2% Picapoll, 1% Garnacha Blanca and Macabeo. From the areas of Camp d’en Piqué, Coll de Falstet and La Baixada in the village of Gratallops, vineyards totalling 12.5 ha, average yield 17.76 hl/ha. 27,860 bottles produced. Impressively structured yet manages to stay soft, silky and plush in the mouth. Very precise yet could be enjoyed early in its life. Dark-cherry and berry fruit, crushed rocks and fine acidity to finish. (AWH)

This is Palacios’ single-vineyard wine from Finca Dofí: planted 18-38 years ago, it stretches across the villages of La Baixada and Coll de Falset. At 88%, Garnacha dominates the blend, complemented with 9% Cariñena and an important touch of 2% Picapoll and 1% other white varieties, which perhaps contribute to the marked freshness of the wine. Fermented in oak vats with indigenous yeast, it’s then aged for 14 months in foudres and large French barrels. Beth Willard: A wonderfully elegant expression of the region and 2022 vintage, though losing nothing in the concentration of the blend. Ripe and inviting, but structured. Eugenio Egorov: Cherry and black berry aromas, hints of herbs and dried leaves. Fresh and rounded, with well-polished tannins and good structure. Matthew Forster MW: Red fruit and rhubarb. Fresh, lifted and herbal. Offers charisma and drive, with a trace of bitterness on the finish.