2009 Morlanda Tinto Crianza Priorat

Morlanda’s Crianza is a 50/50 blend of Garnacha and Cariñena (Grenache and Carignan) grown on vines up to 40 years old. Yields are a mere 1.25 tons per acre in this arid, high-elevation site. The fruit was vinified in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks and was barrel aged for a minimum of six months.

Morlanda’s old vines

Morlanda vineyards — *Morlanda’s old-vine vineyards*

I’ve cellared this bottle for a number of years, having received it as a sample shortly after visiting the winery in 2016 (when I took these photos). The cork was a mess and had to be pushed in, but the wine was perfect.

Opaque red with an orange rim, it was suffused with a perfume that was woodsy and spicy, its sous-bois sensibility also scented with candied violets and orange peel. With air, the palate suggested tea-stained cherries, cedar, and anise seed, and the wine delivered a citrusy, Mandarin orange finish.

This 2009 is just coming into its own. Pair this vintage with smoked or cured meats (I’m looking at you, jamón), or aged sheep’s milk cheeses. It’ll be great with any rich and hearty fare.