2016 Familia Torres Grans Muralles

Perhaps it's the 33 per cent Querol component, but from the very first moment you approach this brooding, black-purple wine, something marks it out as exceptional and different from its regional peers. There's drama in the aromas; the sweet black fruits also seem to smell of crushed stone and seed spice. Once in the mouth, the wine is close-knit, vital with inner gathered force. The fruits are more complex than the aromas had suggested once on the palate; they are gently acid-sustained, and those crushed-stone flavours are present on the tongue, too. This is an unusually complete and commanding Conca de Barberà with plenty of cellar years ahead of it.

A red blend composed of Cariñena, Garnacha, Querol, Monastrell, and Garró, aged in French oak for 18 months. Full of dark fruits and herbs, accompanied by spicy, empyreumatic, and floral notes, which are confirmed on the palate. Structured and precise, it draws attention for its vibrant acidity and taut, fine tannins, as well as a persistent, refined, and deep finish with hints of blackberry, earthiness, and licorice.