Álvaro Palacios | L'Ermita Velles Vinyes Gratallops

L'Ermita is one of the most expensive wines in Spain and the summit of the Priorat revival. A steep terrace of ancient Garnacha above Gratallops, growing on llicorella, the black slate that gives the region its character and forces the roots down through rock to find water.

Tasting Notes
A symphony of dark berries, floral nuance and a distinct minerality, leading to a profound and velvety palate that speaks of Priorat's terroir. The old Garnacha vines yield almost nothing, which is where the concentration comes from, and the slate is responsible for the smoky, stony line running through the middle of the wine. Powerful and perfumed at the same time, and built to age for decades.

Quick Facts

• Grapes: Garnacha with Cariñena
• Origin: Spain, Catalonia, Priorat, Gratallops (llicorella slate soils)
• Style: Dry red, powerful, mineral, very long lived
• Vineyard: Velles Vinyes means old vines in Catalan. A tiny, steeply terraced parcel producing minute quantities

Food Pairing
Roast lamb, game, braised meats, and aged hard cheeses.

Serving
Serve at 16 to 18°C. Decant at least an hour before pouring.

About the Producer
Álvaro Palacios arrived in Priorat in 1989 as one of a small group of winemakers who rediscovered a region that had almost disappeared, and his wines from Gratallops did more than any others to establish it as one of the great appellations of Spain. He also runs Descendientes de J. Palacios in Bierzo and the family estate Palacios Remondo in Rioja.

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