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2010 Celler de Capcanes Mas Donis Barrica

Mas Donis Montsant

It’s no secret that I get a kick out of finding a good deal. When we’re talking about wine, the technical term is Quality-Price Ratio (QPR). When Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate awards a 92-point rating to a ten buck bottle, that’s a QPR worth checking out. I took a chance (admittedly, not a very big one) and bought a case of the 2010 Celler de Capcanes Mas Donis Montsant. I was compelled: as a custom cuvée made for top importer Eric Solomon it has a good pedigree, it’s a blend of 85% Garnacha from 70-year-old vines with some younger Syrah to spice it up, its terroir is “Priorat-adjacent”, it’s aged in French and American oak and, as I mentioned earlier, it’s only ten bucks.

And it delivers. While sunny Spain and global warming can conspire to produce fruit forward alcohol bombs, this Celler de Capcanes Montsant is elegant and restrained. In fact, it has been compared to a fine French Burgundy. Which was my first instinct as a pairing for Greg’s Cherry Chipotle Duck Skewers.

Cherry, Duck…France, right? Pinot Noir, right? Well, yes, this is a classic combination and you could make a lovely meal of it. But we’re talking spicy skewered appetizer here. You want to tantalize, not overwhelm.

The Celler de Capcanes Mas Donis Montsant has just the right balance to get your taste buds going. Your appetite is whetted by the deep ruby color, and the wild berry aromas that carry a hint of spice. The ripe berry fruit in the glass complements the cherry flavors on the plate. The richness of the duck is enhanced by the texture of the soft smooth tannins. The subtle gaminess of the bird is tamed by the spices and herbs in the wine. The oaky toasty notes reference the grilled meat.

But it’s not too much. Even though it’s a great deal.

Ken Eskenazi

Celler de Capcanes Mas Donis Barrica

2010 Celler de Capcanes Mas Donis Barrica

Pairs With Cherry Chipotle Duck Breast Skewers

Price $10

Also pairs well with lamb, chicken, pork, sausage, pizza, pasta; rice, vegetable (mussaka, ratatouille), cheese

  • Category Red Wine
  • Varietal Garnacha
  • Region Montsant Spain