Domini de la Cartoixa, ‘Formiga de Galena’, 2021, Priorat (DOQ)

'One-Liner'
A richly fruited yet energetic Priorat, combining ripe woodland berries with violet, peppery spice and the region’s characteristic freshness and structure.

Tasting Note
Deep cherry red, with ripe blackberry, black cherry and cassis lifted by violet, liquorice and a cool balsamic note of eucalyptus and menthol. Full-bodied without becoming cumbersome, the palate combines concentrated dark fruit with peppery spice, lively freshness and ripe, polished tannins, finishing long, velvety and gently savoury.

Country: Spain
Region: Catalunya
Sub-Region: Priorat DOQ
Grape(s): 60% Garnacha, 20% Cariñena, 20% Syrah
ABV: 14.5%
Friendly: Vegan, Vegetarian, Organic

Awards & Critics' Scores
n/a

The Story
Domini de la Cartoixa, better known as Clos Galena, was founded in El Molar in 1999 by Miguel Pérez and Merche Dalmau. Its name pays tribute to the Carthusian monks of Scala Dei, who once owned the land and helped establish Priorat’s centuries-old winemaking tradition. Formiga de Galena brings together organically grown Garnacha, Cariñena and Syrah, harvested by hand and fermented separately before spending eight months in predominantly French oak. The result offers an approachable expression of Priorat while retaining the dark fruit, balsamic complexity and firm but polished structure associated with the region’s steep, slate-rich vineyards.

Perfect With... (click me for the recipe)
- Meat/fish: Catalan-style braised lamb with tomatoes, olives and rosemary
- Vegetarian: Puy lentil, caramelised onion and thyme tart
- Vegan: Porcini, borlotti bean and rosemary ragù with soft polenta