Torres Mas La Plana

Founded in 1870, Familia Torres is widely regarded as one of the world’s most innovative wineries. They are also one of Spain’s leading producers of premium quality wines – a position which was recognised when they were presented with ‘The World’s Most Admired Wine Brand’ award.

Miguel A. Torres is widely regarded as one of Europe’s leading wine visionaries. After studying oenology and viticulture in Dijon and Montpellier he was responsible for pioneering a number of significant technological advances in the field of winemaking in both Spain and Chile. Today the company is run by his son, Miguel Torres Maczassek, the General Manager of Bodegas Torres, who succeeded his father in 2012.

Famila Torres’ reputation for combining innovation, dynamism and a commitment to quality has put them, and Catalonia, firmly on the world map. Today they remain a wholly independent and family-owned company, which is now run by 5th generation of the family.

As part of the 4th generation, Miguel A. Torres has been described as “one of Spain’s most innovative and influential winemakers”. As well as being one of the first exponents of stainless-steel tanks and temperature controlled fermentation, he also pioneered the planting of non-Spanish grape varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, in his native Spain. During the past 30 years Familia Torres have also focused on re-discovering ancient Catalan grape varieties that existed before Phyloxera. Today close to 50 of these “forgotten” varieties have been rescued and about six of them show great enological potential. Indeed, two of them – Garro and Querol – are already used in the top single vineyard wine Grans Muralles.

From the time the company was founded, Torres have always been committed to “producing premium quality wines whilst retaining the utmost respect for the environment” with a strong emphasis on the use of biological methods and the elimination of products which harm the environment.

The environmental record of Familia Torres is widely recognised and Miguel A. Torres has undertaken numerous interviews with the media, putting climate change higher up the international agenda.

Familia Torres Mas La Plana

In 1979 this award winning Cabernet Sauvignon triumphed in a blind tasting in Paris against some of the most famous wines in the world and marked the new era for Familia Torres and Spanish wines in general. Exclusively produced from a 29 hectare vineyard this intense wine has been matured for 18 months in new French oak and has great body, breadth and balance.

Vineyards

Deep, yellowish grey-brown alluvial soils that are well drained and have a moderate water holding capacity. Made up of interbedded layers of gravel, sand, and clay.

Vinification

15-25 days skin contact in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks and oak foudres. The wine is aged for 18 months in French oak (60% new).

Tasting Notes

The Mas la Plana is graceful and balanced despite its firm and dominant tannin profile. Bright crunchy acidity ensures a wine that will develop in the cellar for years to come. This polished red displays hints of its Mediterranean heritage with herbaceous bramble while holding true to brooding currant and loamy earth, reminiscent of old-world Cabernet Sauvignon.

You only live once, treat yourself. Go to butcher, buy some heritage beef, (Angus, Dexter or Longhorn would be ideal), roast it and enjoy the decadence. Alternatively, enjoy this stunner with a rich stew.