2022 Alvaro Palacios "Les Terrasses", Priorat, Spain
There are 35 units left in stock.
ABOUT THIS WINE
"Les Terrasses" is now effectively Palacios’ “regional” Priorat, sourced from 50+ vineyards across seven villages, many with centenarian vines on steep licorella slopes. The blend is roughly 60% Garnacha, 39% Cariñena and 1% white grapes, fermented with indigenous yeasts (partly whole cluster) and macerated for over 40 days before ageing about 12 months in a mix of French barriques and larger barrels. The wine shows a deep, vibrant colour and aromas of black raspberry, mulberry, dried flowers, coffee, spice and wet slate. The palate is full but not heavy, combining ripe fruit with notable freshness, refined tannins and a long, very mineral finish.
ABOUT THIS PRODUCER
Álvaro Palacios is one of the most influential figures in modern Spanish wine and a driving force behind the revival of Priorat. Born into the Palacios Remondo winemaking family in Rioja, he studied enology in Bordeaux and gained experience at the legendary Château Pétrus before moving to Priorat in 1989. There, he joined a pioneering group of winemakers who saw enormous potential in the region’s old vines, steep hillsides, and distinctive llicorella slate soils.
Based in the village of Gratallops, Palacios built his estate around traditional varieties—particularly Garnacha—and a deep respect for individual vineyards and terroir. His holdings include Finca Dofí and the celebrated L’Ermita vineyard, while Les Terrasses draws from old vineyards throughout Priorat to offer a broader expression of the region. His thoughtful farming and focus on historic sites have helped elevate Priorat to international prominence.
Beyond Priorat, Palacios is involved with his family’s Palacios Remondo estate in Rioja and Descendientes de J. Palacios in Bierzo. Across all three regions, his philosophy remains consistent: preserve historic vineyards, champion traditional grape varieties, and allow each place to express its distinctive character. His impact on Spanish wine has been profound, earning him recognition as one of the country’s most important contemporary winemakers.