Espenyalluchs 2021

Wine Description for Espenyalluchs 2021 by Enric Soler

Colour & Appearance

Bright luminous straw yellow with delicate greenish reflections – a wine that reveals its cool origins from the very first glance in the glass.

Nose

Surprisingly Burgundian in its reductive character: chalk and smoke dominate the first impression, as if you were holding a Meursault. Beneath this unfolds a fascinating aromatic spectrum of grilled pineapple, grapefruit and Nashi pear. Herbal notes of lemon balm, chervil and lemon thyme bring freshness, whilst artichoke and fennel contribute vegetable complexity. The lightly roasted seeds of coriander and fennel complete the picture. Again and again one returns to this stony, austere core – alluring and captivating in equal measure.

Palate

Here the Espenyalluchs reveals edge and character. Acidity and salinity dominate from the very first second. The mineral framework clothes the entire mouth, the salty note is almost physically palpable. The fruit presents itself more austere than on the nose: bergamot and lime determine the progression, zest and kaffir lime leaves shape the finish. Dense, cool, of great length – a wine that lives from terroir and mouthfeel, not from obvious fruit.

Finish

Remarkably persistent and of ethereal freshness. The citrus notes refuse to fade, the interplay of acidity remains lively. A finale that challenges and rewards the discerning palate.

Terroir & Origin

The Espenyalluchs vineyard site (0.91 ha) sits at 400 metres elevation in Alt Penedès near Sabanell. The spectacular Montserrat mountain range at its back provides föhn winds and cool nights – a terroir between Mediterranean warmth and alpine freshness. The challenging 2021 vintage, with its interplay of drought and rain, demanded everything from the old vines.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Xarel·lo from old vines that Enric Soler has recultivated. Unrefined, unfiltered – the complexity achieved is the result of patience and respect for the wine. 12.5% alcohol underscores the elegance.

Food Pairing Suggestions

A wine for demanding combinations: scallops with fennel, artichokes with lemon butter, grilled sea bass, goat’s cheese with herbs or sautéed porcini mushrooms. Also an intriguing choice with oysters.

Special Characteristics

A wine for adults that demands patience and openness. Those who appreciate Burgundian minerality will find it here in Catalonia – authentic, uncompromising, great.