An order of Carthusian monks first found their way to Scala Dei in 1194 at the invitation of Alfonso I. The name "Scala Dei" means "stairway to heaven," and a visit through these transportive ruins remains a critical first stop if ever visiting the region. While monks no longer work the cellars, the Scala Dei wines remain solid - and often a relative value in comparison to those who've arrived in the last half century. Prior is Scala Dei's mid-tier of their three Priorat reds. High octane flavors of licorice, pepper, black plum, violet, and blueberry find balance with spicier, more elegant tones of sandalwood, rosewater, frankincense and gingerbread. While 15% abv, you’d never know per the bright acidity and chalky tannins - yet there remains, a warming medieval intrigue that conjures romantic images of hearthstones and velvet. A nice showing from Priorat’s pioneering monastery. — 7 years ago
Like a chenin blanc with big hairy balls and a very casual attitude toward showering. — 8 years ago
Squashed Grape: Very light with a slight sweetness ... refreshing for a sweet white. I would buy this to serve. — 9 years ago
Nice wine . Thank you @Alfonso Hurtado de Amézaga — 9 years ago
Tons of sediment at least an inch. Decanted for 5 hours almost undrinkable before that but then opened up beautifully. Violets, sandalwood, soy a bit of tar. Great balance. Bellissimo! — 7 years ago
Gorgeous, earthy, dusty barn floor and leather, absolutely gorgeous limited release vintage. Loved it — 8 years ago
With archie at don Alfonso — 8 years ago
Alfonso brought to MFP...quite good — 8 years ago
Very grape tasting. Yummy. Alfonso really likes it. — 8 years ago
Gran clàssic amb cos i molt bé en boca! 25€ a Casa Alfonso, St Antoni, Eivissa — 9 years ago
Lifechanging experience
Pic by @Alfonso Hurtado de Amézaga — 9 years ago
The 2012 was outstanding. Beautiful nose and long smooth finish. Would highly recommend. — 7 years ago
For ya dollars it’s worth a shout, so I reckon — 7 years ago
Daniel and Alfonso were overly critical, because this is a very smooth Pinot with nice fruity note — 8 years ago
Hedonism recommendation. Summer drinking deliciousness — 8 years ago
Smooth and fruity. Nice and light for me. A bit sweet for Alfonso (but he's already so sweet!) — 8 years ago
Roasted nuts, dried apricot, fig and wood polish — 9 years ago
Dave Olson
Not jammy. Smooth, somewhat complex 2015 — 6 years ago