2006 Salanques

A blend of 65% Garnacha (70 to 90 year old vines), 15% Cariñena, 10 % Syrah, 5% merlot, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, from slate soils, and aged for 14 months in French oak, the 2006 Mas Doix Priorat Salanques exhibits first rate aromatics of ripe blackberries, charcoal, sweet oak, and touches of chocolate. While certainly leaning towards the decadent side of the spectrum, this stays in check and shows solid complexity as well as notable restraint. Medium to full bodied on the palate, the wine fills the mouth with loads of fruit that’s balanced by good acidity, a round, soft texture, and a chewy, long finish. While no harm in drinking now, this should evolve for 2-4 years and most likely drink well for a decade or more.

The Salanques cuvee is the second wine of Celler Mas Doix, a barrel by barrel declassification from Mas Doix itself. The 2006 Salanques is a blend of 65% Garnacha, 15% Carinena, and the balance Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon aged for 14 months in French oak. It offers up an enticing nose of cedar, pencil lead, tar, licorice, and black cherry. Dense, layered, and pleasure-bent on the palate, this well balanced wine will provide pleasure over the next eight years. Importer: Eric Solomon Selections, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565

(65% garnacha, 20% carinena and 5% each of syrah, cabernet sauvignon and merlot) Bright ruby color. Finely etched dark berry and mineral scents are complicated by baking spices, anise and dried flowers. Firm and focused, with energetic blackberry and licorice flavors and a spicy quality emerging with air. This put on weight in the glass and finished with very good, sweet persistence. Drinkable right now.