From one of the highest vineyards in Priorat at 600 metres the outstanding 2009 Els Escurcons is a pure Garnacha grown on llicorella (slate) soils with a higher ferrous content its red tinge indicating abundant oxygen in the soil. The nose is very powerful with layers of blackberry briary hot slate and a touch of white pepper. Like Mas Martinet's other 2009s it demands coaxing from the glass but it is worth the wait. The palate is beautifully balanced with immense succulence and intensity counterbalanced by crisp driving acidity that lends it great verve and what I describe as "controlled opulence." There are layers of pure macerated black cherries and cassis caressing the satin-like finish. This wine is bestowed with superb persistency the acidity and definition urging you to take another sip and bridled with a sense of vitality and animation that is entrancing. Drink 2014-2025+. -Neal Martin