RIM Sarau Blanc 2024

RIM Sarau Blanc is a natural white made by Jordi Esteve, known as Rim, in the D.O. Empordà in Catalonia. Esteve works recovered old vineyards around the village of Rabós, in the far north of the appellation near the French border, farming native varieties without chemical inputs. This blend of Macabeo and Garnacha Roja is certified organic and vegan, and the wine is made with a natural, low-intervention approach, fermenting with wild yeasts and ageing on its fine lees. The Empordà lies between the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean, and the cold Tramuntana wind that funnels down the valley keeps the vines dry, healthy and slow to ripen, preserving acidity in a warm climate. Ageing on the lees adds a fine, bready texture and a savoury depth without the need for oak. The colour is pale straw. The nose is fresh and direct, showing lemon, green apple and pear over white flowers, dried thyme and a subtle yeasty note from the lees. The palate is dry, textured and mineral, with citrus-peel bite and a clean, saline finish. Serve at 9 to 11 degrees.