Grupo Alvaro Palacios L'Ermita

Tasting Notes from the Curator

Grupo Alvaro Palacios L’Ermita is a testament to Priorat’s unique terroir and meticulous winemaking. Upon uncorking, one is greeted with a cascade of aromas that vividly communicate the vineyard’s essence. Enticing scents of ripe blackberries and cherries harmonize with the velvety allure of plums, crafting an olfactory landscape rich in depth. Swirling in the glass, floral notes of violets and wildflowers emerge gently, their delicate fragrance a prelude to the robust foundation of sweet spices like cinnamon and clove. This intricate bouquet is underpinned by profound mineral and earthy notes, with slate and soil intertwining seamlessly to ground the wine in its origin. On the palate, L’Ermita reveals a complex dance of ripe fruit flavors punctuated by an unexpected dash of exotic orange peel, adding a bright citrus counterpoint. The wine’s structural integrity is supported by its judicious acidity, which balances its richness and ensures a food-friendly experience. Its smooth, velvety texture glides effortlessly, leaving a long, elegant finish that echoes its layered nuances.

Pairings & Suggestions

Grupo Alvaro Palacios L’Ermita is a versatile wine, perfect for pairing with a range of refined dishes:

• Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb: Enhances lamb’s gamey flavor with its dark fruit and soft tannins.
• Braised Short Ribs: Complements the robust flavors of beef, enhancing the wine’s complexity.
• Roasted Venison with Juniper Berries: The earthy flavors pair beautifully with the wine’s minerality.
• Aged Manchego or Parmigiano-Reggiano: The nutty and salty profiles accentuate the wine’s rich character.

This wine also finds a harmonious match with hearty stews and vegetarian dishes like creamy mushroom risotto, whose earthy notes and creaminess mirror the wine’s mineral qualities.

From Motorbikes to Masterpieces

The history of Grupo Alvaro Palacios L’Ermita reads like an epic renaissance tale, with Álvaro Palacios as the passionate protagonist. From a lineage steeped in winemaking tradition, Palacios made a daring venture into the rugged slopes of Priorat. Selling his beloved motorbike—a beacon of youthful freedom—it represented a literal and metaphorical fuel to his journey in rediscovering and revitalizing this once-neglected region. His unwavering focus and familial support provided him with the resilience to cultivate L’Ermita, crafting a wine that has become a touchstone for Spanish viticulture. A labor of love, this wine reflects Palacios’ philosophy: “we are drinking places, not people,” an ode to the land’s enduring legacy. Each bottle of L’Ermita is a celebration of terroir, history, and an unwavering dedication to quality, ensuring its place as a world-class wine that resonates with both artisans and aficionados alike.

Storage Instructions

Store in a cool, dark place at a stable temperature of 55°F-65°F (13°C-18°C), with 50%-70% humidity. Minimize exposure to light and vibration. Lay bottles horizontally.