Cervoles

Cervoles

This estate located in the subzone of Les Garrigues has been on my radar for many years, awaiting an opportunity for me to visit. I was quietly confident that my time would not be wasted and I was not disappointed. Not only does the actual location scream originality, but the people in charge have the skill required to realise its potential. The complex character of the mountainous terrain is an obvious pointer to that potential for originality and aromatic complexity, with a contrast in character between the fruit from the commune of Vilosell and that of its neighbour La Pobla de Cervoles. The soils here are predominantly calcareous, with gravel underpinned by clay that can retain essential moisture, for the biggest problem in Spanish viticulture today is a lack of water. The altitude of 700-750 m. above sea level with a north facing exposure moderates the temperature and consequently the final alcohol in the wine, significantly lower here than those that prevail in El Priorat on the other side of the Mont Sant immediately to the south.

The vines planted here from 1970 include garnacha, tempranillo, syrah, cabernet sauvignon, merlot, maccabeu and chardonnay. In addition to the culture of vines, olive and almond trees, there is a healthy profusion of wild vegetation, with a wide variety of aromatic plants, wild oak and pine woods. The human genius who has identified the exciting potential of this small and distinctive district and who also has the skill and experience with which to realise it is Tomas Cusiné. He has spent the last twenty years doing just that, leaving me in no doubt that he is has a very clear vision of what can be achieved in this unique location. All the wines here are made from organically farmed fruit.