The 2011 Barranc del Closes is a blend of 50% Macabeu, 30% Garnacha Blanca, 15% Pedro Ximenez and 5% Muscat grown on slate soils (llicorella) and fermented in stainless steel without seeing any oak. It has a clean, intense bouquet of lime, fresh pineapple and fresh grapefruit with a faint hint of spice. The palate is well-balanced with a waxy-textured entry. There is fine acidity here, with a potent thread of lemongrass imparting vigour and intensity. This is a very fine entry-level white. Drink now-2017. Mas Igneus was founded in 1996, a joint venture between Josep Maria Albet, Josep Maria Pujol-Busquets and the Poboleda Cooperative (which left in 2004). The winery is located at their Costers de l’Ermita estate close to Gratallops, and there is a strong organic/biodynamic philosophy throughout all their wines. Mas Igneus’s wines are highly regarded; however, whether it was because of the vintages I tasted or because some had only recently been bottled, I found them falling slightly below my expectations. In particular, I felt that a propos some of the top wines, the oak was not quite in synch with the fruit. Importer: Opici Wines , www.opiciwines.com

Woodsy, loamy and mineral notes weave through this savory red, with wild berry and leafy accents. Firm tannins structure the pillowy texture. Drink now through 2020. 5,000 cases made.??–TM??Region: Spain / Priorat Select to Add