Bodegas y Viñedos Cal Grau - La Petite Agnès 2014

Bodegas y Viñedos Cal Grau - La Petite Agnès 2014 (88 TSW)
Blend of Cariñena and Garnacha.

The Cal Grau vineyards are located in a prime south facing site high in the hills just below the northern ridge which is the boundary between the Priorat and Monsant.  Across the vineyard site are 26 parcels  that are all vinified separately and then masterfully blended into the estate's "Crianza" and "Reserva" wines, Le Petite Agnes and Clos Badaceli.  There is also an extraordinary "Gran Reserva" (Les Ones) that is made from 100 percent Carinena.

The individual parcels are on steep and mountainous terrain arranged in terraces that run through Mediterranean forest areas, almond-trees, and centenary olive trees.  Within each parcel are separate "micro blocks" that are usually picked separately given the wide range of changing soils and micro-climates that exist even within each parcel.  The master of all this is the incredibly precise and articulate Fran, the vineyard manager and head winemaker, who then ultimately creates the masterful blends of the wonderful Cal Grau fruit.

About this wine:

This wine is considered the "Crianza" of the estate although Cal Grau prefers to vinify and mature each of their wines according to what is best for each vintage instead of strict schedules.  The name is from an elderly lady of the area who viewed the rocky and undulating terrain as being good for her health from her daily walks through the vineyards.

My tasting notes:

In the glass a beautiful dark ruby red color.
On the medium+ nose aromad of dark plums, red cherries and spices with notes of eucalyptus, cinnamon and roses.
On the palate dry, medium+ bodied with light sweet spices, medium+ tannins and acidity. Nice medium mouthfeel with dark fruit, spices and tobacco. Very nice finish.