Domaine Lafage Cuvee Nicolas Grenache 2020

"La Narassa is sourced from the famed black schist soils of the Agly valley in the northern Roussillon near the village of Maury. It is made in a semi-ripasso by harvesting the Grenache in successive passes picking only the ripest clusters. Once at the cellars the fruit is destemmed and only the best berries are chosen for fermentation after a short pre-fermentation maceration." —winemaker

Wine Anthology Team Review-  A wonderful example of a master winemaker getting the most out of a simple blend. Grown in Agly Valley (mostly known for desert wines previously) this is made up mostly of Grenache (only the ripest clusters used) rounded out by Syrah to counter balance the "jammy" quality brought on by the Grenache. The combination brings out wonderful balance and an elongated, welcoming finish. Enjoy with your favorite grilled meats. Cheers!

"The inspiration for the Black Slate Project is a Burgundian concept of village nomenclature, applied to the Priorat. One region, nine historic villages, each with its distinct character, but all unmistakably Priorat. Sun-scorched vines cling to breathtakingly steep hillsides with their roots deeply plunged in the llicorella soils of this pristine, ancient region." —winemaker

"The nose is dominated by lots of pure blackberry, crushed herbs, earth and peppery characteristics. The mouth is full bodied, very rich with soft and fine tannins. The finish is fresh with a surprising elegance." —winemaker

"A custom cuvée for European Cellars and a joint project between Eric Solomon and Jean-Marc Lafage, Bastide Miraflors is a cuvée created from old vine Grenache grown on the schist and granite soils of Saint-Paul de Fenouillet, a terroir that always ripens late in the year, and Syrah from gravelly soils near the Mediterranean. After a long maceration of six weeks, the wine ages for 12 months in roughly 3/4 concrete vats and 1/4 600L French oak demi-muids." —winemaker