Les Tosses 2013

Wine Description for Les Tosses 2013 by Terroir al Limit

Character

Terroir al Limit is among the pioneers of the new Priorat movement, which consciously turns away from opulent, high-alcohol wines. The Les Tosses embodies this philosophy exemplarily: an elegant, precise Carignan with a moderate alcohol content of 13.5%, which places the mineral structure and freshness of the old vines front and centre. Here it is about finesse over power, about drinkability rather than concentration.

Terroir & Origin

Priorat ranks among the most spectacular wine regions in Spain. The steep slate hillsides with their characteristic Llicorella stone – a reddish-shimmering slate – decisively shape the wines. Terroir al Limit works with old, ungrafted Carignan vines on steep slopes, which drive deep roots into the mineral-rich soil. The continental climate with Mediterranean influences ensures cool nights that benefit freshness. The 2013 vintage in Priorat was characterised by balanced conditions, which produced elegant, less powerful wines.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Carignan – called Cariñena or Samsó in Spain – was long underestimated but is experiencing a renaissance. Old vines yield concentrated, structured wines with distinctive acidity and fine tannin structure. Terroir al Limit, founded by Dominik Huber and Eben Sadie, relies on minimalist winemaking techniques: spontaneous fermentation, restrained use of oak, no fining. The result is lively, terroir-driven wines that have more in common with Burgundian ideals than with classic Priorat style.

Food Pairing Suggestions

The combination of freshness, minerality and Mediterranean character makes this wine an ideal companion for grilled vegetables, braised rabbit or lamb shoulder with herbs. It also harmonises excellently with Catalan stews, ratatouille or spicy hard cheeses such as Manchego. The structure also pairs well with game birds or duck breast.