Cellers Scala Dei Negre 2011

Red cherry color with bluish hues that denote its youth. Fresh aroma of dominant, ripe red berries with underlying mineral hints from the llicorella terroir. On the palate, broad, well-ripened red berries (mainly bilberry and red currant) and peppery spices give way to a lingering, persistent finish. A balanced wine with freshness, intensity, meatiness, great structure, and roundness. Pairs well with grilled meats, venison, cured cheeses, Iberian-cured ham, other quality cold meats, tapas, or all kinds of pasta dishes.

100% Garnacha (Grenache). Scala Dei, dating back to the 12th century, is the first (and remarkable) winery founded in 1163 by Carthusian monks in Priorat, one of Spain's smallest and most recognized DOs. Its name is Latin for "Ladder of God" so a ladder symbol is used as part of the company's logo, with each step of the ladder representing one of the seven villages and subregions of the area. The winery is surrounded by some of the most dramatic and distinctive winemaking geography in Spain, such as vineyards terraced on breathtakingly steep coastal-slopes that are covered in black slate and quartz soil called llicorella. The soil combined with the region's very-dry climate helps Scala Dei produce wines of exceptional flavor and depth, which are among the most critically acclaimed wines of Priorat. Since 2000, Grupo Codorniu has assumed management of Scala Dei's vineyards and winery, employing modern techniques and state-of-the-art equipment, however Scala Dei still owns and farms 100% of the grapes. To preserve the unique character of Scala Dei and its surrounding terroir, this red wine has been made using Grenache grapes and the most natural methods.