2004 was a superb vintage in Priorat and the three entries from Alvaro Palacios are stunning. If I were a young wine enthusiast with limited discretionary income, I would surely buy a case of the 2004 Les Terrasses. It is a blend of 60% Carignan, 30% Grenache, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon aged for one year in a combination of used French and American oak. It is opaque purple in color with a knockout nose of kirsch, blueberry, licorice and minerals. On the palate there are layers of sweet, ripe black fruits, a supple texture, and light, soft tannins to support several more years of bottle aging. This juicy effort will drink well for 6-8 years thereafter.
Importer: The Rare Wine Co., Sonoma, CA; tel. (707) 996-4484