In the little town of Vilafranca del Penedes in Cataluña, Irene and Laurent are challenging the traditional perception of DO Penedes wine.

Converting their vineyards from the typical Penedes high yields and abandoning all forms of chemical treatment and fertilisers, they follow basic organic practices. Much of the construction and equipping of their cellar was modest and homemade, including building their own tanks. Production remains small, yet as they identify further small vineyard sites their range has extended to include distinctive wines from the indigenous varietal Xarel-lo, which they choose to do extended fermentation with, using indigenous yeast and it is then left on its lees to increase the richness and compexity.

Crisp white fruit and apricot nose with a light nutty element and a Meursault-esque butteriness. The aromas open up and become richer but still perfectly balanced. Dry, soft but fresh acidity. A lovely depth of mineral laced, grassy white fruit with hints of apricot and nuts.