Celler Vall-Llach and the wine’s importer have wisely decreased the price of the entry-level 2007 Embruix de Vall-Llach to the point that it is one of Priorat’s best values. Made from the estate’s younger vines, it is a blend of 30% Garnacha, 30% Carinena, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, with the balance Merlot and Syrah. Fifty percent of the wine was barrel-fermented and all of it was aged for 16 months in 225 and 300-liter seasoned French oak. A glass-coating opaque purple color, it offers up an enticing bouquet of underbrush, damp earth, mineral, incense, black currant and black cherry. This is followed by a full-bodied, dense, savory wine with layers of spicy fruit and a lengthy, pure finish. It can be enjoyed now but will benefit from 1-2 years of additional cellaring. Importer: Folio Fine Wine Partners, Napa, CA; www.foliowine.com

Celler Vall-Llach and the wine’s importer have wisely decreased the price of the entry-level 2007 Embruix de Vall-Llach to the point that it is one of Priorat’s best values. Made from the estate’s younger vines, it is a blend of 30% Garnacha, 30% Carinena, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, with the balance Merlot and Syrah. Fifty percent of the wine was barrel-fermented and all of it was aged for 16 months in 225 and 300-liter seasoned French oak. A glass-coating opaque purple color, it offers up an enticing bouquet of underbrush, damp earth, mineral, incense, black currant and black cherry. This is followed by a full-bodied, dense, savory wine with layers of spicy fruit and a lengthy, pure finish. It can be enjoyed now but will benefit from 1-2 years of additional cellaring. Importer: Folio Fine Wine Partners, Napa, CA; www.foliowine.com

Chunky, fruity and softer than many Priorat wines. There’s raisin, blackberry and prune on the nose, which is followed by a grippy, round palate with sweet blackberry, raisin and chocolate flavors. Fleshy and easy on the finish, with coconut and warmth. Drink now through 2014. ——M.S.(10/1/2011)—— 90