Bodegas La Cartuja Red Blend, Priorat DOCa, Spain

La Cartuja, crafted in the revered Priorat DOCa region of Spain, captures the essence of this storied terroir in a modern, approachable style. With its vibrant minerality, rich fruit profile, and balanced structure, this small-production wine offers a fresh vision of Priorat’s complex red blends.

Product Details:

• Grapes: 70% Garnacha (Grenache), 30% Mazuelo (Carignan)
• Vineyard Elevation: 250 meters (820 feet)
• Soil Type: Llicorella (volcanic slate)
• Farming: Organic
• Vinification: 2 days maceration, 8 days fermentation, 10 days extended maceration
• Aging: 6 months in 225- and 300-liter French oak barrels
• Production: 3,340 cases
• ABV: 14%

Sensory Description:

Brilliant ruby in color, La Cartuja enchants with aromas of ripe dark berries, smoky minerals, licorice, and subtle floral hints. On the palate, it delivers a juicy, open-knit profile, showcasing flavors of blackberry, bitter cherry, and licorice pastille. A peppery lift adds energy, while the mineral-accented finish lingers with cherry pit and floral nuances. Youthful tannins provide structure, making this wine equally enjoyable now or with short-term cellaring.

Winemaker's Background:

La Cartuja was founded in 2007 as a tribute to Priorat’s rich history and distinct terroir. Its name refers to the Carthusian monks who shaped the region’s viticultural heritage during medieval times. Produced by the Compañía de Vinos del Atlántico, the wine hails from the Les Solanes estate, where steep, southeast-facing slopes and nutrient-poor soils imbue the wines with their hallmark minerality and vibrant acidity. La Cartuja represents a modern take on Priorat, offering a wine of pedigree that is approachable, moderately alcoholic, and affordable.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 60–65°F in a Bordeaux glass to highlight its layered complexity. This versatile wine pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted meats, hearty lentil dishes, or Spanish cheeses such as Manchego. For an elevated pairing, try it with rich dishes like pork stewed with lentils and celery, where its earthy, mineral-driven character complements the dish’s flavors perfectly.