Schist Happens: The Power and Elegance of Ancient Soil - All Stores

Just over 30 years ago, a group of French winemakers looked to the Village of Gratallops in the Catalan region of Spain as a way to escape rigid French wine laws, and take advantage of some of the oldest vines in Spain, which had laid untended for the better part of a century.

This “Gang of 5” led by Rene Barbier found ancient Grenache and Carignane vines on steep slopes surrounding the wine region of Priorat (named for the Monasteries that dot the landscape). These producers rejuvenated the area and began making powerful, structured wines that could hold their own with the best in the world.

What really sets Priorat wines apart is the dark, rocky, rugged soil called “schist” that juts out from the hills of Priorat. Schist soils are comprised of hard, dense rocks that are layered with minerals. These soils are generally flaky, and retain heat well.  The wines that schist produces are usually bigger in style, but have an underlying dark mineral streak that lends incredible complexity in both the Reds and Whites.

Join us as we explore the exceptional wines that are grown on schist soil. We’ll taste some classics from Priorat, and also explore other regions that feature the power and elegance of schist including Southwest France, Alasce, and the Douro Valley.

It’s not often we focus on a soil type for our seminars, but when we do it’s because we’re incredibly excited about the quality and variety of wines we are able to feature. We’ll be tasting some a mix of iconic producers and wines that have just made their way to the market, both red and white.

Don’t miss this unique chance to explore the influence that soil can have on wine across a variety of regions and varietals. 

Wines to be tasted (this list from a previous tasting, new wines TBA):

2022 Goulaine Anjou Rose $19.99

2019 Chapoutier Crozes Hermitage Petite Ruche $34.99
2018 Marcel Deiss Grasberg, Alsace $64.99 - Milwaukee & Madison
2020 Marcel Deiss Riquewhir, Alsace $39.99 Delafield & Green Bay
2020 Damien Laureau Savennieres l'Alliance $39.99

2021 Roc des Anges Cotes Catalanes Rouge IGP "Segna de Cor" $32.99
2021 Clos Gebrat $26.99
2020 Conreria Dscala Dei Black Slate La Morera Blanc

2020 Clos Erasmus Laurel Priorat $84.99
2022 Fio Orange "Glou Glou" $31.99