Alvaro Palacios, Finca Dofi, Priorat DOC 2023

The 2023 Finca Dofí was still not bottled, like a few of the 2023s. It comes from the 12.5-hectare vineyard that names the wine, which extends across three different parajes, or lieu-dits, from Gratallops. The vines were planted 20 years ago on slopes and terraces, and in 2023, it delivered 95% Garnacha and 5% Cariñena that fermented with part of uncrushed grapes in oak vats with indigenous yeasts and had a 36-day maceration. It matured in oval oak foudres and large barrels for 15 months. When I tasted it last year, it surprised me because of it's floral and perfumed profile. It continues the same, a character that has grown in the last few years, floral, aromatic and elegant, very clean and precise. 28,000 bottles produced.

The nose delivers lively aromas of violets, redcurrants and wild herbs with a touch of mint. The palate is midweight, with the expected freshness of cherries and notes of blood orange. There's also a little spice and the tannins are more apparent. Long and elegant on the finish. Fermented with native yeasts and matured for 19 months in large French oak barrels. From 12.5ha in Gratallops, Finca Dofí is thoroughly Garnacha, the 2023 blend containing just 5% Cariñena.

Aromas of moss, ripe red cherries and touches of fine herbs and pink peppercorns. Medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins in a sandy texture. Slightly chewy. Juicy, nicely fluid and bright in the long, structured finish. Drink from 2026.