Finca Dofí 2019 | Álvaro Palacios | Priorat

Finca Dofí 2019 by Álvaro Palacios is a distinguished red wine from the Priorat DOCa in Catalonia, Spain. Sourced specifically from three distinct vineyards within Gratallops—Camp d'en Piqué, la Baixada, and Coll de Falset—the vines are situated on steep slopes at altitudes ranging between 250 and 350 meters above sea level. The soil composition is characterized by slate, which contributes to the wine’s mineral depth.

The grape mix for this vintage consists primarily of Garnacha (87%), complemented by Cariñena (12%) and a small percentage of white grapes, specifically Garnacha Blanca and Macabeo (1%). Vinification begins with 100% destemming. The must undergoes alcoholic fermentation in wooden vats accompanied by punch-downs, followed by spontaneous malolactic fermentation. The wine is then aged for 14 months in large oak barrels known as bocoyes and foudres.

The resulting profile is described as classy, elegant, and fresh. It exhibits very clean aromas and flavors that do not lack concentration or power. Notable characteristics include superb definition and purity, marking it potentially as the most elegant Finca Dofí to date. On the palate, it presents a powerful structure with ripe fruit, spicy notes, and mature tannins.

Critical acclaim for this vintage is significant. The Guía Peñín awarded it 96 points, noting its intense cherry color and aromas of ripe fruit, dry herbs, creamy oak, black fruit, earthy tones, and mountain herbs. The Wine Advocate awarded it 97 points, highlighting its single-vineyard origins across the 14 hectares in Gratallops. The review praised its elegance and freshness, emphasizing that while it possesses power, it is defined by its cleanliness and purity.