SPAIN: PENEDES

Loxarel are a 4th generation family owned estate based at Masia Can Mayol in Penedes, happy to mix modern experimentation with tradition and a concern for the environment. New varietals - Chardonnay, Merlot, Syrah, Pinot Noir - are planted alongside the traditional Macabeu, Xarel-lo, Parelleda and Tempranillo.

Their 50 ha of vineyards, high in the mountains, are structured around environmentally friendly production just organic cultivation - for example a decreasing use of tractors and mechanisation, letting goats and sheep graze in the vineyards in preference to weeding. The vines have a minimal treatment of organic fertilizer once every three to four years with a determination to not over work the soil. Thus production is of high quality low yields and a respect for the land.

The new release 'Refugi 1936' honours the Catalan struggle in the Civil War against Franco. Refugi refers to the shelter built in 1936, occupied then by the civilian population, now used to store and age bottles of Cava.

• 45% Xarel-lo, 40% Macabeu, 15% Parellada
• Aged for 28 - 30 months; released as a vintage reserva ready for drinking
• Secondary fermentation by the traditional grappa dosage.
• Straw yellow colour, small bubbles, fruity bouquet exhibiting some ageing character. Balanced fruit and acidity through to the finish.
• Ideal aperitif and drinking for all occasions

• Blended with a proportion of Pinot Noir for colour and flavour.
• Aged for just 14 months to emphasise freshness.
• Deep ruby colour with prominent red fruits on the nose and a full palate with plenty of character and a little sweetness.
• Enjoy as an aperitif and with oysters and light pasta.

• Xarel-lo and Chardonnay. The Xarel-lo is sourced from 70 year old vines of the Santa Susagna estate, situated in the Garraf Nature Reserve outside Barcelona.
• Xarel-lo has partial oak fermentation in 300ltr oak barrels, then stirred manually in traditional cement tanks. 30 months bottle ageing.
• A premium cava, delicate and balanced. Light yellow colour, clean fragrant nose of dried fruits, nuts and light toast. The palate is medium weight with good fresh acidity on the finish.
• Perfect with seasoned dishes or most Mediterranean cusine.

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