Parés Baltà Calcari 2024

Parés Baltà Calcari is a single-variety Xarel·lo from the Penedès, made by the Parés Baltà winery. The name points to the terroir: calcari is Catalan for limestone, and the fruit comes from the estate's vineyards at 254 metres on calcareous, clay-loam soils. Limestone is central to the style, giving the wine its chalky freshness, taut acidity and a clear mineral line, while the clay component holds moisture and lends body through a dry Mediterranean summer. The vineyards are farmed biodynamically and hold Demeter certification, with fertiliser drawn from the estate's own flock of sheep and pollination aided by its bees, and the wine is organic and suitable for vegans. Xarel·lo is a structured, slightly waxy grape that keeps acidity well, and here it is fermented and raised without oak, spending four months in stainless steel to preserve its bright, primary fruit and mineral drive. Expect a pale straw colour, a nose of green apple, lemon and white flowers, and a dry, precise palate with pear, citrus peel and a chalky, saline finish. Serve well chilled at 8 to 10 degrees.