Els Escurçons 2009

Josep Lluís Pérez is one of the legendary names behind the revolution of what were referred to as the “new Priorat” wines in the 80’s and was a forerunner, along with others, of the region’s leap in quality. Today Mas Martinet is a reference bodega in the region and has always been known for its direct involvement in several of the area’s projects. Currently being run by Josep’s daughter, the friendly, charismatic winemaker, Sara Perez. The wines are now made according to the organic viticulture principles and they are very obviously trying to distance themselves from the crude makeup that wood ageing would give their products, taking meticulous care of the fruit they pick and managing all their vineyards individually to produce authentic wines faithfully stamped with the character of the local Priorat grape varieties.

Appearance

Bright cherry red with flashes of garnets. Of medium intensity.

Nose

Immediately lovely and delicious, with noticeable, nicely conjugated fresh fruit. Very captivating aromas of pipe tobacco and cedar.

Palate

Very nice on entry, showing a contrast of warmth yet freshness. Unfussy. Red fruit then emerges with very nice acidity on the finish giving balance.

Comments

Wine from one of the Perez Ovejero family’s single vineyards which they make on the estate from which the name comes, located in the municipality of Falset at an altitude of over 600 m, perhaps one of the highest vineyards in Priorat. Almost entirely planted with Garnacha, the end result couldn’t be more seductive. Overall we thought it was an extremely fresh wine for a Priorat and we see that this a very welcome trend within the area in recent years. Escurçons is elegant and refined, does not soften on the palate, and is blessed with good structure. The hints of licorella (crushed slate) are distinct and very well embraced by the really fresh, fleshy fruit. A delightful wine whose style should be looked at very closely as the way forward for many Priorat winemakers who want to move away from excessive oak and over maturation. Excellent work from Sara Perez.