Score: 90/100
L’Hereu Blanc de Blancs is a definite signature Cava sparkling wine by Raventós i Blanc, coming from a single vineyard with vines over 40 years old, called Vinya del Llac.
Within this vineyard, the plots of la Barbera, Plana, and el Viader, that have deep calcareous soils with a sand-rich loamy texture have been selected to give freshness and elegance to the wine.
See the map of the vineyard below, as displayed on the Cava’s back label:
The viticulture is biodynamic, what else needs saying?
The blend is the typical Cava blend made from local grapes, specifically here: 40 % Macabeu, 40 % Xarel.lo, and 20 % Parellada.
The grapes enter the winery by gravity. At each stage, the atmosphere is controlled with dry ice (solid Co2) to avoid oxydation. Slow pressing at low pressures. Static sedimentation at low temperatures. First fermentation in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature. Assemblage and second fermentation in the bottle with a minimum ageing period of 18th months in a horizontal position. Disgorging date stated on the back label.
Tasting Notes
This bubbly comes in a lemon-yellow color of medium, slightly light intensity, with a few green hues. It looks youthful rather than matured.
This impression of freshness is confirmed on the nose where fresh primary fruit and floral characters dominate.
Lime, paddock flowers, a touch of grape fruit and grapes. This is pure expression of fruit just elegantly complemented by a touch of buttery creaminess giving it an appetizing feel.
Nice to smell!
The palate is lively and crispy, with solid acidity dominating and giving an overall dry feel. The crispy texture pairs well with the fruity citrus flavors, and some acidic pineapple tones.
Lively bubbles, a little sharp reinforcing the freshness.
But as the mouthfeel develops on the palate, the coating oily texture takes more control to finish on delicate buttery notes and a silky texture.
Overall
A complete Cava wine delivering of full range of sensations. From a very fresh and explosive fruity and citrusy start to the tasting, to a more complex and layered leesy mid-palate and finish, while the crisp acidity is sustained all along.
Dry and approachable, with a rather fine texture, it delivers its fair share of depth and complexity for most palates to find it pleasing and interesting.
The touch of delicate tannins and slight limy bitterness to the finish makes you want to get back to it for a second sip, which is the most important thing!
Enjoy
Pouring L’Hereu Wine Video
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