La Vilella 'Black Slate' Priorat

Profile & Story

Bodegas Mas Alta was founded in 1999 in the village of La Vilella Alta by two Belgian families with the guidance of French oenologist Michel Tardieu, and today works with négociant Eric Solomon, winemaker Bixente Oçafrain and consultant Philippe Cambie. Black Slate La Vilella Alta is part of Mas Alta's village-designate Black Slate project, built from old-vine Garnacha and Cariñena grown on the licorella (slate) and clay-limestone soils unique to La Vilella Alta, with small additions of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. The wine is fermented in tank and aged in French oak, roughly 30-35% new, reflecting the warmth and structure typical of this steep, terraced corner of Priorat.

Pairing Recommendation

Stands up well to grilled lamb, short ribs, or other richly seasoned red-meat dishes.