Description

We first sold the 2010 Domaines Lupier’s La Dama which was an age worthy and spectacular expression of 100% old vine Garnacha from the upper Navarra region in northern Spain.  I remember traveling through this arid region just to the north of Pamplona (“running of the bulls”) and just south of the Pyrenees range.  Really better known for its inexpensive, good value blush wines.  And until Enrique Basarte and Elisa Úcar began discovering and rescuing miniscule, remnant plots of old vine Garnacha in 2006, that’s exactly where these grapes ended up.  SACRILEGE!  Studying and mapping the various diversity of soil types (chalky-clay and limestone) and using organic and biodynamic viticulture practices to nurse these dry farmed old bush vines back to health reminded me of the Priorat pioneers of the mid-1980s.

After many years of experience in the wine sector and convinced that the making of a great wine takes place in the vineyard, Elisa Ucar and Enrique Basarte searched and examined the terroirs in various areas until they found what they were looking for: abandoned black Garnacha old vines in mountain altitude in North Spain, with predominant limestone soils and different orientations.  Twenty-seven lots.  Some planted since 1903.  Since then, all farmed organically and certified biodynamic.

Let’s fast forward to the 2018 vintage where the legendary winemaker Raul Perez finished the final blending the wines after acquiring the 17 hectares of old vine garnacha from Ucar and Basarte which was rated the La Dama with 97 points by the Wine Advocate.  Fast forward AGAIN to La Dama’s 2023 vintage where Raul Perez is in complete control.  Wine Advocate’s Luis Gutiérrez has rated this vintage with a glowing 98-point review.

100% head-pruned, organically dry farmed Garnacha sourced from a prime 125+ year old limestone-rich 2-hectare single parcel called Lupier at the highest reaches (400 meters asl) of the estate fermented spontaneously in a combination of tank and open-top barrel will some whole bunches.  Raised in a diverse selection of larger French oak barrels ranging from 400-1500L, about 90% of it used.

The Wine Advocate (98 Points): Reviewer Luis Gutiérrez noted that this vintage is “more delicate, ethereal and fine,” showcasing a paler color and a unique sense of fragility and delicacy. The review praises the wine’s purity of aromas and flavors, its delicate texture, super-fine tannins, excellent balance, and immense energy, concluding with a enthusiastic “It’s really stunning, bravo!”

ONLY 2500 BOTTLES PRODUCED!!