Conreria Scala Dei, Priorat Escaladei Black Slate

The red produced in conjunction with their US importer, the 2016 Black Slate Escaladei is a blend of Garnacha with 20% Syrah from the hamlet of Escaladei and a mix of other grapes from different vineyards on slate and clay soils. The two grapes fermented separately, and the Syrah matured in 300-liter oak barrels for eight months while part of the Garnacha was also in similar barrels and a 5,000-liter oak vat. It's beautifully perfumed, super floral and aromatic with virtually no hints of oak, quite unlike some of the other reds here. Ideally, this is what a red from Escaladei should be—elegant and perfumed. Very impressive, sleek and elegant. Great value. 10,600 bottles were filled in September 2017.