Pares Balta 'Blanc de Pacs' Penedès DO 2020

The origins of Parés Baltà date back to 1790 when the first vines were planted in the mountains of Penedès, Spain (just west of Barcelona), on the estate that now surrounds the winery. In 1978, Joan Cusiné Hill took over the winery, beginning a family business that’s now in its third generation. Today his two grandsons, Joan and Josep Cusiné Carol, grow the grapes, while their wives, Maria Elena Jimenez and Marta Casas, are the winemakers and oenologists. Remaining respectful of long standing winemaking traditions, Parés Baltà welcomes innovation as well, with respect for the environment above all. Accordingly, all their vineyards are certified organic and biodynamic. Cultivating their grapes without any herbicides, pesticides, or chemical fertilizers, they employ a flock of sheep to fertilize and weed the vineyards after harvest, as well as hives of bees to assist in pollination. This easygoing white is made from 51% parellada, 29% macabeo and 20% xarel-lo grapes – the same grapes used in Cava production. The xarel-lo gives the body, macabeo the fruit, and parrellada lends delicate floral freshness. Bright and clean, with no oak, it displays enticing aromas of orchard fruits, and is fresh and crisp on the palate, with notes of white peach accompanied by a squeeze of Meyer lemon. Good acidity and subtle hints of citrus, herbs, and floral accents lead to a balanced, food-friendly finish. Certified organic, vegan.