Xavi Buil-Giné comes to Oxford!

What an unforgettable day it was on the 15th of November 2024! Our company had the pleasure of organizing the Oxford Wine Fair, and after closing up shop, I headed to Oxford Town Hall where I was called in to assist the team. Upon arrival, I mingled with many friends and acquaintances before making my way to the table showcasing Buil & Giné wines. To my delight, the winemaker himself, Xavi Buil, was present! 

Wishing to make a special impression, I introduced myself to him in Spanish. The timing couldn’t have been better-he was very busy and asked if I could assist at his table. What incredible luck! I had the opportunity to taste all his wines and engage some wonderful conversations with him. It was especially meaningful for me because, just days earlier during our WSET Level 3 certification session, I had tried the Giné Giné red for the first time. What a delicious wine at an excellent value! 

Sourced from the 22 hectares vineyards of the estate around the village of Gratallops, Giné Giné is crafted from Garnacha and Cariñena grapes, hand-picked from old vines on steep slopes to offer a true expression of the Priorat region. 

With a full body and remarkable structure, Giné Giné stands out for its authenticity and aromatic intensity, showcasing a rich concentration of red fruit flavours such as berries, pomegranate, and cherries. On the palate, I also detected evolving notes of prunes, cocoa powder, and savoury undertones. Subtle hints of aromatic herbs like eucalyptus and mint, along with a touch of peppery spice further emphasize the wine’s mineral character, derived from the iconic Licorella state soil unique to Priorat. 

And the best part? When you see its price in our shop, you might be pleasantly surprised! 

It was a privilege to meet the winemaker behind this exceptional wine, Xavi Buil. I’ll soon be writing an article about another hidden gem from his collection and sharing more about this fascinating and unique Spanish region of Priorat. In the meantime, why not enjoy a glass of Giné Giné?