Vendrell Rived "L'Alleu"

Montsant, SPAIN |  2023

The Catalan wine zone of Montsant neighbors the more famous Priorat, essentially wrapping around Priorat like a horseshoe. While the two regions have their differences, Montsant is every bit as deserving of attention. The best wines here can rival those of Châteauneuf-du-Pape or Gigondas in the Southern Rhône, but at a fraction of the price. This is where authenticity, old vines, and Mediterranean character still come together in an honest, quietly exceptional way.

Josep M. Vendrell Rived is one of my favorite producers in the region—an under-the-radar grower whose wines consistently overdeliver. His small family winery is dedicated to highlighting the two pillars of Montsant: Garnatxa (Grenache) and Carinyena (Carignan/Samsó). A longtime grape grower, he worked at the local Capçanes cooperative and sold his fruit for years before finally producing his own wine in 2000—before Montsant was even a recognized DO, when it was still part of the greater Tarragona appellation. Many of his vineyards, particularly around Marçà and Capçanes, are old-vine parcels farmed organically, plowed regularly to encourage deep roots and express the underlying character of the terroir. His cellar is modest—modern enough to be efficient, but ultimately the kind of small, artisan winery where everything is done with intention and care.

The 2023 “L’Alleu” Tinto captures everything I love about Vendrell Rived’s style: bright, pure, and full of Mediterranean charm. It’s a blend of 60% Garnatxa Negra and 40% Carinyena from vines between 50 and 80 years old. Aromas of red cherry, raspberry, cracked pepper, and wild herbs rise from the glass, accented by a hint of warm earth and mineral dust from the region’s mix of clay, limestone, and llicorella slate. On the palate, it’s juicy and energetic, with supple tannins and a core of fresh red fruit, plus a hint of dried fig. This is Montsant at its most honest and delicious.

As you’d expect, “L’Alleu” is a dream at the table. Its freshness and balance make it ideal for lamb skewers, or anything seasoned with rosemary or smoked paprika.