Can Descregut La Socarrada 2023

Can Descregut farms in the Penedès, on the north-eastern coast of Catalonia, an area with a long winemaking past that runs back to the pre-Roman Iberians who stored and made wine in clay amphorae. This orange wine is made from Macabeo, the white grape best known locally as a component of Cava, here given skin contact and then aged for six months in stainless steel tanks. The Mediterranean climate ripens the fruit while the inland sites keep enough acidity for freshness, and the choice of inert steel over wood preserves the wine's brightness and avoids any oxidative or oaky weight. The skin maceration adds gentle texture, a deeper colour and a light phenolic grip rather than firm tannin, keeping the wine accessible and clean. It is farmed naturally and organically and made to a vegan specification. Expect a pale amber colour and a fresh nose of green apple, lemon and white peach lifted by white flowers. The palate is dry and lightly textured, with citrus drive, a faint almond note and a crisp, herb-edged finish. The style is fruity and easy rather than heavy. Serve at around 10 to 12 degrees. It suits white fish, roast chicken and salads.