The 2010 Les Pujoles is pure Ull de Llebre, the local name for Tempranillo, fermented in 500-liter barrels and transferred to used French barrique for malolactic and one year of aging, which seems to have developed some animal aromas mixing leather and cured meats with notes of licorice and the telltale cherry Tempranillo aromas with a lactic hint. The palate reveals abundant fine-grained tannins and a slightly drying finish, which calls for powerful food or more time in the bottle. Drink 2015-2018. Orto Vins was created in 2008 by four vignerons from the village of Masroig, one of them winemaker Joan Asens who worked for a long time with Alvaro Palacios in Priorat. Between them they have 24 hectares of vineyards mostly in the Masroig village, ranging from 8 to 143 years of age. As expected, in the 24 hectares there is a variety of grapes, soils and altitudes to produce a wide range of labels. I was really looking forward to tasting their line-up, as some of the wines were new to me. They work according to biodynamic practices, follow moon cycles, have much lower yields than those allowed by the Montsant appellation, and all their wines are aged in fourth- and fifth-use French oak barrels. I found wines of great purity, and true to their origin and varieties. They are highly recommended. Total production averages 35,000 bottles per year. Importer: Peninsula Imports, New Rochelle, NY; tel. (914) 740-4724.

This firm, polished red offers black cherry, espresso, licorice and tarry flavors, supported by chewy tannins. A bit austere in character, but has depth, with toast and mineral notes lingering on the finish. Drink now through 2020. 895 cases made.??–TM??Region: Spain / Montsant Select to Add