The 2012 El Sender, a blend of 60% Garnacha, 30% Syrah and 10% Morenillo aged for six months in a mixture of new and used French oak barrels, is still extremely young and has a ripe nose of raspberry and licorice showing its youth and power. The palate is medium-bodied, with flavors of blood orange, bitter cherries and spices, pleasant and easy to drink, with good balance and a nice price tag. Drink 2015-2019.
LaFou, in Terra Alta, is one of the four wineries belonging to the Roqueta family, another being Abadal from Pla de Bages, which you’ll find in the corresponding section in this article. In Terra Alta, they own 60 hectares in the north of Batea with vineyards at 350 to 500 meters altitude, and a winery in as 18th century house in the very center of the village. They focus on Garnacha, both white and red, to produce a modern range of wines.
Importer: Martin Scott Wines, Ltd., Lake Success, NY; tel. (516) 327-0808, www.martinscottwines.com