Perhaps this is not the wine to begin appreciating Xarel-lo, but it is definitely the kind of wine that gives you the idea where this variety can go. It is a profound and complex wine, with many layers of aromas and flavours to enjoy, but also the acidity and minerality that takes a bit of training to appreaciate fully. For the people who don't yet know Xarel-lo varietals, it is perhaps better to start with the Improvisació from Enric Soler or the Xarel-lo from Celler Pardas. But for those who dare to encounter the an adventure in the wine glass, Espenyalluchs has a lot of surprises in store, including a total rethinking on what you can get from old versus young vines. If you want your preconceptions blown away, I know of no more rewarding way than this wine!
da: Chris (3/6/2019) - Annata 2017
1
Stunning as ever, more harmonious than previous vintages
The Espenyalluchs is an experiment that has succeeded spectacularly and it keeps getting even better. This vintage is more integrated, rounder, than previous ones. The acidity and minerality are still there, but are less prominent than they used to be in previous vintages. There is a complexity of different aromas with lots of fruit and floral notes as well. In a way, this vintage of Espenyalluchs is closer to Enric Soler's Nun Vinya dels Taus. It is a thoroughly enjoyable wine now, and it should do well in the cellar for some years. One of the very best whites I have ever tasted!
