NEW PARKER SCORES FOR CATALONIA

The latest issue of Robert Parker's Wine Advocate features three articles dedicated to Catalonia.

Here is a list of wines that have gotten good scores, together with the commentaries of Luis Gutiérrez, Robert Parker's Spanish specialist.

First stop is Priorat, with three red wines made from the traditional varieties of the region, namely Grenache and Carignan.

Ritme Negre 2014, of the Acústic Celler, is "a great introduction to Priorat" according to Mr. Gutiérrez. Parker 90.

Produced by Terroir al Límit, Vi de la Vila de Torroja 2014 is "floral, fresh and fruit-driven". Parker 92+.

Our third Priorat is Ferrer Bobet Vinyes Velles 2013, by Ferrer Bobet, a wine defined by "a superb freshness and a lively minerality". Parker 93+. Exceptional vintage.

As for the rest of Catalonia, Portal Criança 2013 is a red blend produced by Celler Piñol in Terra Alta that shows "fine-grained tannins and a fine acidity, with a mineral, tasty finish". Parker 89.

A single varietal white wine, Bàrbara Forés El Quintà 2014 is made from White Grenache. Produced by Celler Bàrbara Forés, it has "volume and acidity, power and freshness". Parker 91.

Taleia 2014 is a white wine produced in Costers del Segre made from Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon by the Castell d'Encús winery. "Good freshness and a tasty, almost salty finish". Parker 92.

Now let's have a look at the Cavas.

Mestres Visol Gran Reserva Brut Nature 2010, a sparkler of Caves Mestres, is a blend of the traditional varieties with "a creamy palate, small bubbles and a sharp finish". Parker 90.

Combining Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Colet Assemblage Extra Brut, of Caves Colet, has a palate that is "powerful and compact, with great balance". Parker 92.

Made by Recaredo, probably the best sparkling wine producer in Catalonia, Recaredo Subtil Gran Reserva Brut Nature 2007 shows a nose that "is terribly complex... A superb, powerful Cava." Parker 93.

Until our next post,

Enjoy wine-and let it breathe.