Buil & Gine - Joan Priorat White 2018

92 International Wine Report

The 2018 ‘Joan Gine’ Blanco is a fantastic blend of 50% White Garnacha, 25% Macabeo, 20% Viognier and 5% Pedro Ximenez and Muscat. Showing better at a warmer temperature, the silky texture entices as bright pear and kiwi flavors collide with shades of lemon blossom and nutmeg that linger on the palate.

Buil and Giné is named for Xavi Buil’s grandfather, Joan Giné, who made wine and raised his son and grandson in these dramatic vineyards. The winery itself was established in 1998 in the heart of Priorat, Gratallops, among the steep slate strewn slopes that the region is famous for. Many of the vines here are 45+ years old and are a stone’s throw from the well known L’Ermita vineyards that share much of the same terroir.

Vivid straw-yellow. An incisive bouquet evokes fresh citrus and orchard fruits, white flowers and dusty minerals, and a hint of ginger adds subtle spiciness. Sappy, mineral-driven pear and Meyer lemon flavors stretch out slowly while maintaining vivacity. Closes smoky and very long, with a sexy floral note lingering. Raised for six months in new 600-liter French oak barrels.