Perelada Cigonyes Blanco 2024

Perelada is one of the historic names of the D.O. Empordà, in the coastal north-east corner of Catalonia where the tramuntana wind funnels down from the Pyrenees to the Gulf of Roses. That constant dry wind lowers disease pressure and keeps the vineyards healthy, while the poor soils of slate, granite and alluvial gravel restrict vigour and concentrate the fruit. This is a blend of Macabeo, the workhorse white of Catalonia, and Sauvignon Blanc, picked to hold natural acidity. Fermentation is carried out in stainless steel at cool temperatures to protect the primary fruit, with no oak, so the wine keeps its bright, direct character. The colour is straw yellow with greenish reflections. The nose leads with pear and white peach, backed by lemon and white flowers from the Sauvignon Blanc portion. The palate is fresh and light bodied, dry, with a clean citrus line and a faint saline grip that reflects the maritime, windy site. It finishes crisp and clean. Serve well chilled at 8 to 10 degrees in a standard white glass. Good as an aperitif and with grilled white fish, shellfish and fresh salads.