In the last 20-30 years, Alavaro Palacios has become widely regarded as Spain’s finest winemaker. Many consider Alavaro to have revived the whole reputation of this once renowned region, which by the 1950s had fallen into almost complete neglect.  Following a re-planting programme, Priorat is now regarded as one of Spain’s finest wineproducing regions – if not THE finest – being  one of only two to qualify as DOCa, the highest level for a Spanish wine region.
Alvaro’s spiritual home is Priorat, although he now works in Rioja as well.  His passion and skill can clearly be seen in the full range of wines that he produces.  He is a true innovator within the wine world and producer of some of Spain’s most powerful red wines – led by his outstanding flagship wine Ermita, which is Spain’s most revered red wine .

The 2013 Camins del Priorat is superb – and the baby of the family – a very accessible and affordable example of Priorat.  It is a powerful, heady mix of Garnacha and Carignan (with a touch of Syrah and Cabernet), full of herby, spicy blueberry fruit and jam flavours. Totally savoury and satisfying – it’s a must for shepherd’s pie (with a dash of Worcester sauce), sausages in onion gravy, stews and casseroles.
Congratulations Alvaro!
Nick Adams MW