Fermentation in 225 litre oak barriques followed by elevage sur lie for around 8 months. Fermented using wild yeast and with little to no sulphur added. Made in tiny quantities this is simply stunning.
Notes on the producer
After obtaining a degree in Biology at the University of Barcelona then a subsequent degree in Enology – with an emphasis on biodynamic and organic viticulture – at the Public University of Tarragona, Ester Nin took a position at Mas Martinet in Porrera in 2001. Eventually she became the viticulturist for Daphne Glorian at Clos i Terrasses where she supervised the transition of the vineyards to biodynamic farming. Falling in love with the rugged slopes, rocky soils and ancient vines of the region, in 2004 Ester bought a 1.5 ha. parcel of old vine Garnatxa Negre, Peluda and Carinyena in Mas d’En Caçador– the famed vineyard on the border between Porrera and Gratallops. About the same time, Carles Ortiz, a native of Barcelona and a trained Enologist in his own right had purchased nearly 5 hectares of vineyard land in the nearby site of Finca les Planetes. In 2008 Ester and Carles married and merged their properties. With two viticulturists devoted to the principles of biodynamics, the farming at Familia Nin-Ortiz only employs organic materials in their vineyards, sprayed biodynamic infusions, and applications of their own compost. They are members of Nicolas Joly’s organization, “La Renaissance des Appellations,” and share their knowledge with neighbors interested in pursuing the transition to biodynamic farming.
