Xarello, Macabeo, Parellada, Chardonnay
75cl * 12% ABV * Òdena, Spain
The Bohigas estate is located just to the south of Òdena, the spiritual homeland of Cava. The area appears to be a wide, relatively flat caldera, ringed by mountains, ancient and unchanged for many hundreds of years. A link to an older Catalonia and, one suspects, not wholly unchanged in centuries and the family behind Bohigas can lay claim to being custodians of this land for over 800 years. The business produces around half a million bottles and exports almost 80% to foreign markets.
This wine is extra brut so it is dryer than normal sparkling wines and has been aged for a minimum of 30 months to achieve Gran Reserva status. As a result the wine is expressive of its place and production. The fruit is ripe and their are hints of stone fruit and tropical fruit but a lovely hint of toasted nuts. The palate is delicious, with lime, peach guava and a great mineral finish. Well structured and balanced.
Enjoy this Cava with roasted white meat, fish and shellfish, paired with Manchego or, simply, as an aperitif.