The grapes used are Carinera (Carignan) and Garnacha (Grenache) and to an increasing extent Syrah. Monsant holds Spain’s oldest Syrah vineyards, and the Syrah adds another layer of complexity and depth. In addition to the three primary grapes, a small quantity of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot can be added to the blend.

Monsant used to be known for producing Kosher wines for Barcelona’s Jewish community but is now producing significantly less quantities. The red wines of Montsant are now attracting international attention due to their production of blended red wines, which are aged in oak, often unfiltered and produced to an increasing extent organically.

Agricola de Falset-Marca, which produces the Etim, was founded in 1919 in the village of Falset, located 100 miles southwest of Barcelona. Etim is a blend of 85% Garnacha from vines that are at least fifty years old and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine was aged for four months in French oak and bottled unfiltered. Etim, which means "Roots", is a superb expression of the terroir and extreme growing conditions.

This deep ruby colored wine is packed with perfumed, ripe berry fruit, anise, balsam and soy notes. A thick, viscous, almost liqueur like liquid coats the palate. This wine is a grand example of a stellar vintage in the region and is ready to be consumed now. A perfect match would be tapas with a side of the traditional Romesco dipping sauce: typically a blend of garlic, almonds, olive oil and indigenous peppers (Tarragona’s specialty). Also, game meats will pair well with this powerful wine.

"A terrific value, this southern Rhone look-alike is an unfiltered blend of 85% Grenache and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon produced by a local cooperative. It was aged six months in French oak before being bottled unfiltered. A fruit-ball, it offers loads of kirsch liqueur, licorice, and pepper. Drink this pure, medium-bodied, hedonistic 2001 over the next 1-2 years" —WA88

—Scott