Cellar Cesca Vicent - Abat Domenech 2012

Cesca Vicent is a unique proprety located in the heart of Priorat in the town of Gratallops. The estate is owned and operated by Francesca Vicent (better known as Cesca), who is a fifth-generation producer. Her family has been farming grapes in this area since the 16th century! After she inherited her plot of land, she began researching its soil composition, discovering that her 13.2 hectares included not only the classic Llicorella soil for which Priorat is famousr, but an additional 10 different soil types. Cesca became determined to craft a range of wines that show the incredible diversity of her vineyard. She has been practicing organic viticulture since 1999 — becoming certified in 2011 — striving to make a wine as naturally as possible and true to the terroir from where it came.

The 2012 Abat Domènech is a blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Garnacha, 15% Carinyena and 15% Syrah. The wine displays a beautiful deep ruby color with a faded garnet rim, a visual indication of the wine’s development. The nose is pristine, with haunting aromas of baked blackberries, cassis and red plum intermingled with notes of violet, spices and leather. The palate is full-bodied, though soft, with a perfectly integrated acidity that keeps the wine fresh and buoyant. However, you never forget you’re drinking Priorat ― the wine is concentrated and intense with a firm, mineral backbone that compliments the complex herbal, fruit and spice flavors all of which flow into a lavish, decadent finish. This is the essence of Priorat: rich and powerful with balance, complexity and structure – a true representation of one of Spain’s most hallowed terroirs. Drink now or cellar for a further 5-8 years.