Ranci Dolc, Priorato, nv

Mas Martinet’s Ranci Dolç NV is an unbelievable naturally sweet wine produced from Garnacha grapes that were left to dry for 2-3 weeks after the harvest, before fermentation up to around 16% alcohol. Maturation is carried out in a solera that contains components of up to 100 years old. The solera was established properly in 1995, building on old reserve wines that the estate had sourced, as a tribute to the historic Ranci wines of the region. Bottled in miniscule batches every two years with approximately 80g residual sugar, it is a delicious wine produced in resolutely traditional fashion. Nutty, honey and toffee notes vie with balsamic, wood smoke and sweet leather. Dried raisins, chocolate and Christmas spices complete the package – powerful but perfectly balanced and oh so drinkable! A rare bird.