Grapes from bush vines over 110 years old (planted 1911) on steep Llicorella slate at 370 m altitude; biodynamic viticulture; vinification with stems and 18 months ageing in a single French oak Bocoy
Tasting note
Colour & Appearance
Rich, luminous cherry red with violet reflections – dense and inviting in the glass.
Nose
The nose is simply seductive: dark cherry and blackberry meet floral nuances, fresh herbs and an unmistakable iron ore mineral character that recalls the Llicorella slate of Priorat. Behind this lies a cool, almost alpine freshness that lends the wine remarkable clarity. Complex, expressive and highly captivating.
Palate
On the palate, a wine of fascinating duality reveals itself: powerful and elegant at once. The concentration is impressive, yet never descends into heaviness. The tannin is ripe, fine-grained and silky – no astringency whatsoever. A tense, vibrant acidity provides tension and freshness, reminding us that Carignan in the right hands is capable of true greatness.
Finish
Long, vibrant and saline-mineral. The wine closes with spicy herbal notes and a lingering slate echo – a finish that invites contemplation.
Terroir & Origin
The vineyard site sits at 370 metres elevation on a steep, north-east-facing slope – a cool exposure that is crucial for freshness and finesse in the sun-blessed Priorat. The famous Llicorella slate soils imprint the wine with their characteristic minerality and force the vines to work deep. Biodynamic viticulture underscores the respect for this extraordinary terroir.
Grape Variety & Vinification
Pure Carignan (Cariñena) from bush vines, planted in 1911 – over 110 years old. Whole-bunch fermentation with stems lends the wine structure and depth. It then matures for 18 months in a single large French oak Bocoy – an élevage that shapes the wine without dominating it.
Food Pairing Suggestions
Ideal with lamb rolls with mushrooms and Mediterranean herbs – whether from the oven or the grill. Equally wonderful with Escalivada, the Catalan classic of roasted vegetables: the wine’s minerality mirrors the smoky, earthy notes of the dish with elegant grace.
Special Characteristics
La Solana dels Marges is an impressive testament to the fact that Carignan is no rustic everyday wine, but rather – from old vines and great terroir – can mature into one of Spain’s most convincing character wines. A wine with character, history and soul.
EN 
DE 
FR 
IT 
