Nun Vinya dels Taus 2022

Wine description for Nun Vinya dels Taus 2022 from Enric Soler

In the rolling hills of the Penedès, where the Mediterranean winds caress the vineyards, Enric Soler's Nun Vinya dels Taus tells a story of Catalan perseverance and reinvention. A former sommelier in Barcelona, Soler set out on his own path when he took over his grandfather's inheritance in 2004 - a hidden treasure of 1.5 hectares of Xarel-lo vines planted in 1945, the year after the war. This secluded plot between two hills in Sabanell was to become the starting point of a quiet revolution.

What was once valued merely as a component of the regional cava, Soler elevated to the main character of an independent wine. Together with his wife Mercé, he has since expanded the project: a second plot with massal selections from the original vineyard and a bold plantation at an altitude of 500 metres in the Alto Penedès, where they grafted Xarel-lo onto old roots - a territory traditionally reserved for Parellada.

Visual impression

In the glass, the 2022 Vinya dels Taus presents itself with a radiant, pale yellow colour with greenish reflections reminiscent of early morning sunlight falling through olive groves. The crystalline clarity of the wine already hints at its precision.

Nose

The nose immediately reveals its Mediterranean origins - a complex bouquet of white flowers, citrus fruits and a subtle mineral note reminiscent of the chalky soils of the Penedès. With a little contact with the air, nuances of green apple, fennel and a salty breeze reminiscent of the not-too-distant coast unfold. The 2022 vintage brings a particular intensity of flavours, characterised by a warm summer balanced by the elevated position of the vineyards.

Palate

The true greatness of these old vines is revealed on the palate. The wine moves with impressive precision - taut and focussed without losing texture. The moderate acidity carries the flavours of candied lemons, ripe pears and a subtle herbal note reminiscent of wild thyme. What sets this Xarel-lo apart is its remarkable minerality - not intrusive, but like a fine thread that runs through the entire flavour. The alcohol content of 13% is perfectly integrated and gives the wine structure without compromising its elegance. The long finish reveals a slight bitterness that is typical of the grape variety and is reminiscent of almonds and sea salt.

General information

This wine embodies Solers deep understanding of the potential of the Xarel-lo grape. The biodynamic cultivation of the vineyards, gentle hand-picking and minimal intervention in the cellar allow the terroir to express itself unadulterated. The 2022 vintage is particularly successful - a year that allowed for the perfect balance between ripeness and freshness. With its low production, Vinya dels Taus remains a rare wine that represents the rediscovery of a Catalan identity beyond cava.

Food pairing suggestions

The versatility of this wine is evident at the table. It harmonises wonderfully with the local cuisine of Catalonia - especially with Fideua (a paella variation with noodles) or Bacallà a la llauna (Cod from the tin pan). Also to grilled sardines with garlic and parsley, it unfolds its full potential. Recommended for international pairings Oysters, Ceviche or a simple Risotto with lemon and saffron. The slight bitterness on the finish also makes it an interesting accompaniment to Artichokes - an otherwise difficult combination in the wine pairing.