Clos Berenguer - Seleccio Priorat 2017
Price: $39.96
| Producer | Clos Berenguer |
| Country | Spain |
| Varietal | Other Red Grapes |
| Vintage | 2017 |
| Sku | 602088 |
| Size | 750ml |
itself to the name of the region, Priorat. The reputation of the region was well established until phylloxera all but eliminated viticulture in the area until replanting began in the 1950s. Still even then, the area was not dedicated to fine wine production until one René Barbier purchased land in the area in 1979. Convinced of the potential of the region he invited friends down to join him. Alvaro Palacios, and Carles Pastrana answered the bell and the three of them made wine jointly as they brought their own vineyards online. By 2000 the region shocked the wine world when the authorities elevated the region to Spain’s highest quality level, DOQ (or DOCa in Catalan). At the time of promotion, the only other region to achieve that status was Rioja.
The region has a base soil known as Llicorella which is of volcanic origin. It consists of reddish and black slate embedded with tiny particles of mica, reflecting sunlight and retaining heat. A thick topsoil, composed of decomposed slate and mica, compels vine roots to delve deep for water, nutrients, and minerals. These unique soil attributes contribute to the wine's exceptional quality and ensure the vines remain securely rooted during the prevalent strong winds and storms in the area. A distinctive intense minerality in the red wines of the region is believed to be attributed to these soils.
Spain's arid vineyards are renowned for their low yields, yet Priorat's vines boast even more modest yields by Spanish standards. Here, the average yield falls below five hectoliters per hectare (500 liters per hectare). Officially, the maximum allowable yield in Priorat is set at six tons per hectare (approximately 4500 liters per hectare or 2.4 tons per acre) for red wines and eight tons per hectare (about 6000 liters per hectare or 3.2 tons per acre) for white wines. For context, the Spanish average stands at 25 hectoliters per hectare (2500 liters per hectare), while vineyards in the cooler, wetter climate of Germany yield closer to 80 hl/ha (8000 liters per hectare). The connection between yield and quality is evident; lower yields generally indicate higher quality. Three primary factors contribute to Priorat's exceptionally low yields: the climate, nutrient-deficient soils, and the now relatively old age of the vines.
Grenache is the top variety planted in the region (41%). Other allowed red varieties are Carignan (Carinena), Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Merlot. Clos Berenguer is a blend containing all of these except Merlot at roughly 1/3 Grenache, 1/3 Carignan, and 1/3 Syrah/Cabernet Sauvignon. It is a tiny production, 250 cases. On the palate the wine shows richly with spice, black pepper, plum, coffee and licorice flavors.
