Nita 2011 Priorat
Nita is a unique gem from the Spanish appellation of Priorat produced by the Meritxell Pallejà Winery. The Catalans call it Priorat, pronounced (pree-ohr-aht), most others in Spain say Priorato. However one pronounces it, Priorat has been a region on the rise for Spain causing a stir among wine aficionados around the globe for this cult wine. The vineyards are located in the southern part of the Tarragona province, approximately 2 hours from southwest Barcelona. The countryside of Priorat are hilly and rugged, with soil made of nutrient-poor brown slate soil mixed together with rocks that the Spanish call llicorella. The vines become gnarled because of the soil and the inability of the soil being able to retain water, resulting in low production of concentrated fruit which yield a complex wine. Due to the rugged mountainous terrain, the vines are required to be tended by hand.
The region of Priorat is known for producing barrel-aged red wines, Nita however is one of a handful of non-barrel aged wines or “jovenes” meaning “youthful”. Nita is a perfect wine for one to taste the fruit of the province in its purest form. Female winemaker, Meritxell Pallejà, makes magic with this wine by retaining all of the mineral characteristics of Priorat, and preserving the complex fruit flavors the old Garnacha and Cariñena vines yield. Pouring a glass, you are fascinated with the vivid deep garnet color and clean fruit taste on the palate. The blend of this wine is 45% Garnacha, 35% Cariñena, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Syrah. The nose yields some notes of strawberries and sweet cherries, with aromatic hints of fragrant spice. The wine finishes warm with level tannins. If you have never tried a Priorat, be sure to grab a bottle of Nita for around $20.
Cheers!