Nun Vinya dels Taus 2024

The Nun Vinya dels Taus is Enric Soler's flagship wine, a Xarel·lo that favours coolness and depth over power. A wine that needs patience: in the cellar it gains complexity over the years while remaining fresh.

The Vinya dels Taus plot, Catalan for "vineyard of the molehills," lies in the hamlet of Sabanell in the Alt Penedès at 400 metres above sea level and covers 0.89 hectares. The roots of the old vines reach deep into the limestone, sandy subsoil, finding water and nutrients there even in dry years. The Mediterranean, 30 kilometres away, moderates the climate, while cool nights preserve the acidity. In the background rises the rugged Montserrat massif.

Xarel·lo from vines planted by Soler's grandfather in 1945: the oldest Xarel·lo vines in the world. Since 2005, Soler, named Spain's best sommelier in 1997, has farmed the vineyard biodynamically. Harvesting is done by hand in 15-kilo crates, and fermentation proceeds spontaneously with wild yeasts, with no adjustments to the must. Ageing in oak lends structure and ageing potential. For the vinification, he has been advised for years by Ester Nin.

Straw yellow with golden reflections. On the nose, ripe lemon, yellow apple and white blossom, alongside delicate herbs and a touch of oak. Dry and precise, with vibrant acidity, a juicy core and creamy texture, the finish long and almost saline. 12.5% vol.

Grilled sole with brown butter, Catalan-style vegetable coques, chanterelle risotto or semi-mature goat's cheese. Also a fine choice with poultry in a light jus.

Four wines and just over 10,000 bottles a year: the estate remains a micro-producer, and its wines are regularly sold out quickly. Ratings from Wine Advocate and the Guía Peñín run high.