Finca Dofi 2017 Alvaro Palacios

Professional reviews

Robert Parker (95)

The single-vineyard 2017 Finca Dofí comes from ten hectares that were planted 20 years ago in the village of Gratallops. It's mostly Garnacha with 8% Cariñena and 1% white grapes that fermented after being destemmed and lightly crushed in oak vats with indigenous yeasts. It matured in large oak barrels (bocoyes and foudres) for 16 months. There is no trace of oak in the wines, and there are no edges; they all feel sleek and elegant. This Dofí expresses the Mediterranean vintage from this vineyard at 300 to 320 meters in altitude, where the slate has a lot of iron, which turns the soils red and makes round and velvety wines, with flavors of red cherries, cherry pit, nectarines and even blood orange. The warm soils are compensated by mostly northern exposures. The palate has volume and is juicy, sensual and velvety, with some fine-grained tannins that currently call for food. It makes for a very gastronomical red.

Winespectator (94)

This big red is broad and firm. Muscular tannins support the ripe flavors of plum, currant and fig, while tangy acidity keeps this lively and focused. Black olive, dark chocolate, pine and loamy earth notes add interest to this brooding, balanced wine. Drink now through 2033.

Vinous (95)

Deep, brilliant violet. An expansive bouquet evokes fresh red and blue fruits, candied licorice, exotic spices and smoky minerals, and a candied lavender note builds in the glass. Shows impressive depth as well as energy on the palate, offering finely detailed cherry, boysenberry, floral pastille and spicecake flavors sharpened by a hint of smoky minerality on the back half. Youthfully chewy tannins build slowly on a strikingly long, mineral- and floral-tinged finish that shows solid thrust and vibrant lift.