Katherine Rice

In 1194, the Carthusian Priory of Scala Dei was founded at the foot of the Montsant mountains in extreme southern Catalunya. It was an ideal spot for the Carthusians who practiced a rigorous form of monasticism, one that valued silence and strict isolation. And as well all know...  the monks drink where the monks went.  While the Carthusian monks were walled away in their individual cells, their lay brothers developed the land around the monastery, planting the first vines, olives, and hazelnuts for which this part of Catalunya would become renowned in centuries to come. In the process, they also founded outposts and encouraged peasants to settle and farm the lands. These outposts grew into the nine villages of the Priorat – Bellmunt, Gratallops, El Lloar, La Morera, Porrera, Poboleda, Scala Dei, Torroja del Priorat, La Vilella Alta, and La Vilella Baixa. Each village has a unique history, festivals, and customs but they share the same rugged geography and rich viticultural traditions established by the Carthusians at the end of the 12th century. In 1835 the Priory was dissolved but its ruins remain and its legacy lives on in the very name of the region – the Priorat.

Black Slate is a collaboration between Eric Solomon, founder of US-based importer, European Cellars and four estates in the Priorat: Conreria d’Scala Dei (Escaladei and La Morera), Celler Cecilio (Gratallops), Bodegas Mas Alta (La Vilella Alta) and Celler Cal Pla (Porrera).  The objectives behind the Black Slate project are to create an awareness of the Priorat for the entry-level wine consumer and offer well priced wines thus encouraging exploration of the region. Each unique wine showcases the individual terroir from different villages. 

This class takes a deep dive into this historic and special place hosted by Haunah from European Cellars.  We will taste through five wines to gain a sense of what terroir can do in a micro climate like Priorat.  Charcuterie by Tastes by Rachel will be served.