Classic (1999)
SommeliAI Insights
A rich and full-bodied Priorat red with deep flavors of dark fruits and spices.
About this wine
The 1999 Cims de Porrera 'Classic' from Priorat is a robust red wine that showcases the region's distinctive character. On the nose, it offers intense aromas of ripe blackberries and blueberries, accompanied by subtle hints of creosote. The palate is full-bodied and rich, featuring flavors of dark fruits like plums and blackberries, complemented by notes of chocolate and spices. The wine's impressive purity and flamboyant personality are balanced by well-integrated tannins and a long, satisfying finish. This wine is a testament to the unique terroir of Priorat, known for its steep, slate-laden vineyards that contribute to the wine's depth and complexity.
About the grape
Carignan, known locally as Cariñena, and Grenache, or Garnacha, are two grape varieties deeply rooted in Spain's Priorat region. Carignan likely originated in Aragon, Spain, and has been cultivated in Priorat for centuries. Grenache, also believed to have Spanish origins, has been a staple in Priorat's vineyards since at least the 14th century. In the 1999 Cims de Porrera 'Classic' wine, these old-vine Carignan and Grenache grapes are cultivated in the region's unique llicorella soil—a mix of black slate and quartz—which forces the vines to develop deep root systems, resulting in low yields and concentrated flavors.
Quick facts
- ⛰️ Cims de Porrera's vineyards are situated on steep slopes with gradients of 40% to 50%, requiring manual harvesting due to the challenging terrain.
- 🍇 The winery focuses on preserving centenarian Carignan and Grenache vines, some over 100 years old, which yield as little as 200 grams of grapes per vine.
- 🏆 The 1999 Cims de Porrera 'Classic' received a 94-point rating from Robert Parker, who praised its rich, full-bodied character and impressive purity.
- 🪨 Priorat's unique 'llicorella' soil, composed of reddish and black slate with mica, imparts a distinctive mineral quality to its wines.
- 🏔️ The name 'Cims de Porrera' translates to 'Summits of Porrera,' reflecting the high-altitude vineyards that contribute to the wine's complexity.
Palate profile
Producer
Cims de Porrera was established in 1996 to revive the century-old native Carignan and Grenache vineyards in Porrera, Spain, which were at risk of abandonment due to challenging cultivation conditions and low economic returns. The winery collaborated with local cooperative members, purchasing grapes to encourage the preservation of these precious vineyards. Situated on steep slopes with gradients of 40-50% and elevations between 350 and 600 meters, the vines yield an average of 300-500 grams of grapes per plant. This initiative has led to the production of high-quality wines that authentically express the Priorat region's unique terroir.
