Trio l'infernal : Combier-Fischer-Gerin Riu Priorat 2014

The Priorat is located a short drive away from Barcelona, Spain.  Upon arrival, the steep slopes and sharp turns on the road is enough to take your breath away, and the wines even more so.  The growers and producers here know this place is something special.  The dry climate, rolling hills and poor soil make it very hard for anything to grow, but vines do, and that is all that matters. 

The Priorat is famous for its llicorella soil.  Crumbling bits of laminated slate that are almost dark copper in colour.  Vines dig deep to find moisture, water and nutrients in order to thrive.  This hard work reflects in the beauty of the wine, which has concentrated depth, intensity and complexity. 

The Trio Infernal of Riu is a partnership between Laurent Combier of Crozes Hermitage, Peter Fischer of Provence, and Michel Gerin of Côte Rotie, who come together to make top quality wines in the Priorat.  The wine is wonderfully crafted, powerful and captivating.  This has got to be one of the most alluring wines I have tasted this year.  Here’s why….

This is a bland of 33% Garnacha, Carignan, and Syrah aged 12 months in new French oak.  The wine has a fruit forward excitement of modern wine making with the complexity and fierceness of old vines.  There is structure, depth, and rustic elegance that instantly teleports you to the Priorat.  This cuvee retains all the beauty and power that the wines from this region are known for…but also with a welcoming freshness and vibrancy that leaves a lasting impression. 

Bold and beautiful fruit, showing blackberries, blueberries, and dark cherries with bits of spice and earth.  Intense flavour with excellent acidity and soft tannins leading to an elegant finish composed of dark dark fruit with a good streak of minerality.  Gorgeous wine.  Outstanding quality to price ratio.  Drink now, or within the next 4 -5 years. 

SAQ: 12134170  $34.25

To find a bottle near you check out:
http://bit.ly/CFG_RIU