Wines Priorat Terroir Al Limit Soc. Lda - Les Manyes - 2019

Viniou Reviews

Terroir Al Limit Soc. Lda’s Les Manyes 2019 from the Priorat DO in Catalonia is a captivating red wine of remarkable depth and finesse. Crafted primarily from the rare Garnacha Peluda (a mutation of Garnacha with finer, hairy leaves and naturally lower alcohol), this cuvée reflects both the singularity of its grape and the remarkable hand of winemaker Dominik Huber. The 2019 vintage, shaped by moderate weather, displays impressive purity and balance. The grapes are sourced from high-elevation vineyards planted on red clay and chalk soils above the village of Torroja, lending the wine its trademark freshness and minerality. Vinification focuses on minimal intervention: whole-bunch fermentation, gentle maceration, and ageing in large, neutral oak barrels, preserving the site’s unique character.

Priorat, nestled in the rugged heart of Catalonia, has a dramatic landscape defined by steep slate hills (“llicorella” soils) interspersed with ancient terraces. This terroir, combined with a Mediterranean climate marked by hot days and cool nights, yields wines of profound structure and freshness. Historically, Priorat's renaissance began in the late 1980s, transforming it from a forgotten region into a byword for Spanish fine wine. The region’s isolation and focus on old-vine Garnacha and Cariñena have cultivated an identity favouring both concentration and finesse. Les Manyes, in particular, stands out for harnessing the delicate side of Priorat, rather than its sheer power.

A wine of such aromatic complexity and silken texture deserves thoughtfully matched dishes. Its lifted red fruit, floral notes, and savoury undertones pair beautifully with Catalan classics like roast lamb with rosemary, rabbit with tomatoes and olives, or escalivada (chargrilled peppers and aubergines). The wine’s vibrant acidity and subtle tannins also lend themselves well to more refined pairings: duck breast with cherry sauce, slow-roasted pork belly, or charcuterie featuring Iberian ham.

For optimal enjoyment, serve Les Manyes at 15-17°C. Decant for an hour to allow its intricate bouquet to unfurl, revealing echoes of wild herbs, cherry, and mineral notes. This wine has the poise and structure to age gracefully, yet offers immense pleasure in its youth with the right meal and setting.