Celler Pinol 2019 'Portal' Tinto, Terra Alta DO

Item Number: 21030

UPC: 0-810411010624

Country: Spain
Region: Catalunya
Sub Region: Terra Alta
Appellation/AVA: Terra Alta DO
Estate Grown Wine: Yes
Vintage: 2019
Grape(s): 70% Garnacha / 15% Cariñena / 15% Syrah
Type: Wine - Red
Bottle Size: 750 ml
Pack: 12
Closure: Cork
Alc by Vol(%): 14.5
Viticulture: Practicing Organic
Case Production: 3500

This wine is crafted by the fourth generation of the Piñol family, with a limited production of fewer than 3,500 cases worldwide. The vines, traditionally head-pruned and dry-farmed without irrigation, thrive in clay soils. The vineyards are situated in Batea, a town at an elevation of 356 meters (1,168 ft), which is 65 meters (213 ft) higher than the village of Gratallops in the neighboring Priorat region.

Winemaking Notes: The grapes are harvested in the early morning and promptly brought to the winery, where they are de-stemmed and crushed. Before fermentation, the must undergoes cold maceration at 43°F for four days in large tanks with capacities ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 liters. Fermentation begins with neutral Levuline yeasts, commonly used in Champagne, allowing the skins to mix with the juice for 22–28 days. Malolactic fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks, and the wine is then aged for 12 months in 300-liter French and American oak barrels.

Tasting Notes: Ruby-red. Vibrant blackberry, potpourri and peppery spice scents are complemented by suggestions of candied licorice and smoky minerals. Concentrated black and blue fruit flavors show very good clarity and a touch of sweet floral pastilles. Silky, slow-building tannins add shape and grip to the long, sweet finish, which leaves a note of dark fruit liqueur behind.