GRAPES: 100% CARTOIXÀ DE LA MARINA
SKIN CONTACT: 6 DAYS
REGION: CATALONIA, SPAIN
Vinification method: In a small village called Nulles, winemaker Francesc Boronat is working to revive his family’s old vines where his grandfather made wine a century ago. Persistent wind from off the sea helps preserve freshness and acidity in the wines, made from varieties indigenous to Tarragona. "Tanca els Ulls" means ‘close the eyes’ in Catalan - a reference to the bravery required to take a leap into the unknown. In a village of 480 with no other active wineries, Francesc says the entire process of resuscitating the winery has been “very emotional." This cuvée is named for the last horse Francesc's grandfather worked the vines with: "La Lleona," translating to "the lion."
The Cartoixà de la Marina grapes - a pink-skinned mutation of Xarel.lo - are hand selected in the vineyard from 80 year old vines. They macerate for 6 days in stainless steel before being pressed and aging on the lees for 4 months in steel tanks. Bottled unfined, unfiltered, and minimal added S02.
Tasting notes: light-bodied, underripe cantaloupe, floral, saline, mineral
Pairings: patatas bravas + paprika aoili
Mix and match 3, 6 or 12 bottles!
