2020 Espectacle Espectacle del Montsant, Catalunya

The 2020 Espectacle del Montsant has 15% alcohol, lower than the two previous vintages despite being a warmer year, and it has power and concentration (from the weather and the low yields from mildew), reaching a good concentration with freshness, which is the key to having a balanced 2020. The wine is floral, and the profile of fruit is more primary. It also has abundant, fine-grained tannins that are going to require some more time in bottle. They manage to produce more or less the same quantity of this wine, around 6,500 bottles. It was bottled in May 2022.

Espectacle always has the floral expression and the elegance of this unique vineyard in Montsant. Starting in 2022, Christian Barbier, who is leading the regenerative viticulture in the Priorat/Montsant zone, will be in charge of the viticulture here.

97 points Luis Gutierrez robertparker.com

Espectacle Espectacle del Montsant is a rare and captivating expression of old-vine Garnacha from Catalunya, Spain. Crafted from a single, ancient vineyard perched on steep, terraced slopes in the Montsant region, this wine is the result of meticulous care and the vision of a passionate winemaking team, including René Barbier of Clos Mogador fame. The vineyard, with vines over 100 years old, produces tiny yields of intensely flavored fruit, creating a wine of exceptional depth and elegance.

In the glass, Espectacle reveals a deep, garnet-red hue with brilliant ruby highlights. The nose is nothing short of enchanting, offering a complex bouquet of ripe red berries, black cherry, and plum, layered with floral notes of violet, lavender, and dried rose petals. Subtle hints of wild herbs, sweet spice, and a touch of smoky minerality add further intrigue.

On the palate, it’s rich and velvety, yet beautifully balanced. Lush red and black fruit flavors unfold alongside fine-grained tannins and vibrant acidity, creating a wine that’s both powerful and refined. Notes of dark chocolate, anise, and crushed rock emerge with each sip, leading to a long, seamless finish that lingers with a whisper of spice and floral elegance.

Espectacle del Montsant is a wine that deserves special attention at the table. It pairs beautifully with slow-roasted lamb, grilled ribeye, or rich game dishes. It also complements aged cheeses and earthy mushroom-based plates. While stunning now, this wine has the structure and complexity to evolve gracefully over the next 10–15 years.

Espectacle is more than just a wine—it’s an experience, capturing the soul of Montsant’s ancient vineyards and the artistry of its winemakers. Rare, expressive, and unforgettable, it stands as one of Catalunya’s most iconic wines.