Garnarcha Blend

Embruix de Vall Llach 2004

Some more 2004 Priorat.  This one is from Cellar Vall Llach, at the bottom end of their quality tree.  These guys seem to be on fire at the moment, their 2002 and 2003 wines were very well received and they seem to at the very top of the heap for the 2004 vintage as well. 

Embruix is made from the fruit of younger vines and sees mainly older french oak for 16 months.  It is a blend of 35% Garnacha, 30% Carinena, 20% Syrah, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Merlot.  There are some fancy winemaking going on here too, 50% malo in tank, the rest in wood etc.

Its a brooding black/purple in the glass, the nose very primary and sooty.  It opened up a lot more with time in the decanter and shows aromas of crushed rock, soot, liquorice and subtle blue and black fruits, blackberry and blueberry mainly.  Extra smooth, but concentrated with luxury tannins.  More blackberry on the palate with pepper, black currents, and a bit of tar.  Well balanced and long.  This wine seems very young at this stage, I'd but it away for a few years then drink over the following 10.  I can't wait to have a look at the other wines in the range.  91+ Pts.

Source: Boccaccio Cellars RRP: $60 Closure: Conventional Cork