Grupo Álvaro Palacios Finca Dofi Priorat

Tasting Notes from the Curator

The tasting experience of Grupo Álvaro Palacios Finca Dofi Priorat presents a sophisticated interplay of aromas and flavors that celebrate the uniqueness of the Priorat terroir and the mastery of Álvaro Palacios. This wine unfolds with an aromatic bouquet that captivates with its complexity. Initial aromas of fresh, vibrant raspberries and tart pomegranates are accompanied by the deeper, darker allure of elderberries. These primary notes introduce a fruity freshness that is nuanced by a layer of secondary aromas—wild, earthy briar, subtle floral hints of hibiscus, and the intricate herbaceousness of Earl Grey tea leaves.

The tertiary aromas evolve further, introducing a wet-stone minerality that speaks to Priorat’s signature slate and quartzite soils, commonly referred to as llicorella. Accents of vanilla and graphite, imparted through thoughtful oak maturation, provide additional layers of depth. On the palate, Finca Dofi resonates with an intense fruit expression dominated by rich dark berries such as blackberries and blueberries, echoing its aromatic promise. The herbal undertones pair seamlessly, adding a subtle complexity to the palate.

A silky weightlessness characterizes the wine’s texture, supported by vibrant acidity and fine-grained tannins that ensure a balanced structure. Each sip provides a seamless palate experience, exuding elegance and complexity that unfolds into new nuances with every taste, epitomizing the meticulous craftsmanship synonymous with Álvaro Palacios.

Pairings & Suggestions

• Grilled Meats: The wine’s vibrant acidity and fine tannins make it a perfect companion for charred flavors, ideal for a grilled ribeye steak with herb butter.
• Hearty Stews: With its depth and complexity, Finca Dofi harmonizes beautifully with rich, savory stews such as a classic beef bourguignon.
• Aged Cheeses: Pair it with aged Manchego or Gouda to balance the rich flavors with the wine’s acidity and fruitiness.
• Mushroom Risotto: The earthy complexity of the wine complements the flavors of a creamy mushroom risotto.
• Ratatouille: Enhance your dish with the wine’s acidity, perfect for a hearty vegetable ratatouille.
• Roasted Quail with Fig Sauce: The wine’s structure beautifully pairs with the rich flavors of game birds matched with a fig reduction sauce.

  The Revival of Priorat

The revival of Priorat as a prestigious wine region owes much to Álvaro Palacios, who played a pivotal role in its transformation. Situated in the northeast of Spain, Priorat is an ancient winemaking area, where viticulture can be traced back to the Roman era, and was later significantly developed by Carthusian monks in the 12th century. By the mid-20th century, however, the region saw a decline, and its vineyards fell into obscurity. In the late 1980s, Álvaro Palacios, motivated by his winemaking heritage and an unyielding vision, set out to resurrect Priorat.

With a focus on quality and terroir-driven wine, Palacios began crafting world-class wines that showcased Priorat’s unique microclimates and hardscrabble soils. He harnessed traditional methods, combined with organic and biodynamic practices, to produce wines of exceptional character that revered the land. His work has inspired a new generation of winemakers in Priorat and helped establish the region as one of Spain’s elite wine-producing areas.

Priorat today stands as a testament to Palacios’ enduring influence. Wines like Finca Dofi are celebrated globally, recognized for their elegant complexity and unique expression of terroir, continuing to elevate the reputation of this historic region.

Storage Instructions

Store Grupo Álvaro Palacios Finca Dofi Priorat in a cool, dark place, ideally between 55-65°F (13-18°C), with 50-70% humidity. Keep bottles lying horizontally to ensure the cork remains moist and air-tight.