Priorat is named for the Carthusian monks, Priors, who developed viticulture in the area in the 12th century. It is a rugged area with steep hillsides and shards of licorella, a reddish-black slate. Enric Costa and Lluís Llach founded the Vall Llach winery in the early 1990s producing their first vintage in 1998. Embruix, pronounced “embroosh," means bewitched in Catalan. It is a blend of Carignan, Grenache, Cabernet, Merlot and Syrah that was fermented in stainless steel and aged neutral oak. You might expect a big, rustic wine, but it is a beautifully balanced wine with ripe juicy fruit, vibrant acidity and polished tannins. Enjoy it with grilled lamb chops or aged Manchego.
Vall Llach, Priorat (Spain) 2021
By Rebecca Murphy