2004 Álvaro Palacios Finca Dofi

Intense, smooth and mineral with topnotes that transcend the everyday. There’s a real ‘ping’ factor as nuances jump out of the glass on to the palate. Very fine – much more sophisticated than early vintages of this wine. It clearly has lots of alcohol but this is very well managed and the whole seems exceedingly nutritious. Liquorice, tar, but lots of satin texture seamlessly flowing into black fruit flavours too. (JR)

Inky violet. Exotic, multi-faceted aromas of dark cherry, blackberry, licorice, violet, black pepper and graphite. Firm and structured, with chewy texture and powerful, concentrated red and dark fruit flavors tinged by minerals and succulent herbs. For a wine of such concentration this is elegant and poised. Shows great precision and energy on the long, spicy finish.

2004 was a superb vintage in Priorat and the three entries from Alvaro Palacios are stunning. The 2004 Finca Dofi offers an upgrade. It is sourced from a single vineyard on the estate of which 60% is Grenache and the balance Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Carignan aged in 100% new French oak. Deeper in color than Les Terrasses, and more reticent aromatically, with coaxing, scents of toast and smoke, minerals, violets, blueberries, and chocolate emerge. Full-bodied and harmonious, there is an opulence to the fruit which is breathtaking. It should drink well for 10-15 or more years. Jay Miller-Wine Advocate # 169 Feb 2007