Partida Creus Xarel·lo 2022

Partida Creus is a small Catalan winery run by Antonella Gerosa and Massimo Marchiori, working from an industrial warehouse in Bonastre rebuilt with recycled materials. Their Xarel·lo is bottled without a denomination of origin and follows a Slow Food philosophy in the vineyard, using old plots with narrow rows and minimal intervention. Xarel·lo is the workhorse white of the Penedès, naturally high in acidity and phenolic grip, which suits an unadorned natural approach. The wine ferments with native yeasts and spends three months on its fine lees in stainless steel, a short lees contact that adds a little texture and a bready savoury depth without masking the grape. There is no oak and no fining, and the low 10.5% alcohol keeps everything taut. The colour is pale with a faint cloudiness. The nose gives green apple, lemon and white flowers over a leesy, doughy background. The palate is dry and mineral, with pear and a distinct saline note that reflects the coastal Mediterranean site, closing on brisk acidity. Serve well chilled at around 8 to 10 degrees.