CELLERS SANT RAFEL, S.L. D.O. MONTSANT Mas Sant Rafel 43774 Pradell de la Teixeta (Tarragona) TEL +34 689 79 23 05 FAX +34 977 32 30 78 info@solpost.com www.solpost.com
Xavier Penas is the proud owner of this new winery in Pradell de la Teixeta in the heart of Montsant. The property was an abandoned farm and has been under rehabilitation since 1997. The vineyards are still quite young with the plans to plant more vineyards in the future. The vineyards are not "certified organic", but in a state allowable called "produccion intergrada", which is an option between stardard and organic production. It is a sustainable system that does not use chemical products, and keeps the plants sanitary with natural methods. There is no irrigation and it forces the plants to look for a way to survive. Today, only 9 hectacres are planted.
SOLPOST, MONTSANT 2006
SOLPOST 2006 D. O. MONTSANT
Estate grown fruit in a densely wooded area of Montsant. 50% Garnacha, 35% Carignan and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. Aged 12 months in 50% American oak and 50% French oak, with 50% new oak and 50% second year barrels. Intense fruit and spice on the nose extend onto the palate with suave tannins and a beautiful depth of flavor. Only 1,125 cases produced.
WINE ENTHUSIAST Michael Schachner-91 pts.
"Warm and smooth, with aromas of fresh dill, spiced cherries, mulled earth and more. The palate has a full, stacked feel with well-oaked flavors of vanilla, toffee and earthy berries. Finishes chewy, with complexity and light flavors of caramel and tobacco."
WINE SPECTATOR Thomas Matthews-89 pts. "This fresh, ripe red offers flavors of black cherry, blackberry, toast and cola, with brisk tannins and a clean finish. Balanced and restrained, with some depth. Grenache, Carignan and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2014."
2005 WA-91 2004 WS-92 2003 WS-90(first vintage)
Solpost Fresc 2007
SOLPOST FRESC 2007 D. O. MONTSANT
A new addition, the Fresc is from the younger vines on the estate. 80% Garnatxa, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Syrah. Aged 6 months in a blend of 60% American oak and 40% French oak, equal parts new, 2nd and 3rd year barrels. Minerals, granite with crushed black fruit, rose petals and a whiff of oak.A lean first impression of tight minerals wrapping up the fruit but then expands on the back half. This “Fresc” version from the winery is now the entry level wine, but is not for entry level palates. It needs to be aired out a bit. Only 1,600 cases produced.
WINE ENTHUSIAST Michael Schackner-90 points "A blend of 80% Garnacha with Cabernetand Syrah. Purple in color with friendly black fruit aromas. Plum, fresh raisin and blackberry flavors are smooth and structured."
WINE ADVOCATE Jay Miller-89 points No tasting note given.
