The young red 2016 Ops matured in amphorae so as not to mark it with oak. Now all Garnacha (it used to also contain Merlot), the wine wears the generic Catalunya appellation. It's young and fruit-driven, a little grapey, with some bright aromas. The palate is juicy and with berry flavors. 5,000 bottles were filled in January 2018.

The nose of the 2015 Ops feels very creamy with a lactic note and something that made me think of Fruits of the Forest yogurt. It is a blend of Garnacha and Merlot sold with the generic Catalunya appellation rather than Penedès; it fermented in stainless still and matured in clay amphorae for three months. There are some honey and pollen aromas intermixed with the notes of berries and the palate shows fine-grained tannins, revealing a fruit-driven, straightforward red. It finishes slightly bitter. 3,000 bottles produced and filled in April 2016.

The 2009 Ops is also a blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 60% Merlot from 17-year-old vines, the latter planted at 500 meters and aged in new French oak for 12 months. The nose is a little subdued, though with aeration attractive chalky, granitic notes eventually emerge. The palate is medium-bodied with coarse tannins on the entry, the fruit darker than the Amalthea Red, with a chewy and, again, quite tertiary finish. Drink now-2014. Although I was most taken by Loxarel’s cavas, they produce an interesting range of dry whites and reds, predominantly named after Greek gods and representing outstanding value. Importers: Classic Wines, CT; Tel. (203) 975-2522 and Wine Symphony (Andrew Bell), NY; Tel. (212) 226-8283

Raisiny, heavy stuff made from a mix of Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It’s thick and awkward, with molasses on the nose then tomato, plum and herbal flavors. Lacks balance and mouthfeel while pouring on the weight. ——M.S.(10/1/2011)—— 82