rating B+

standout 20ha site owned by González-Byass

about the winery in Sant Sadurni was bought in 1982 by sherry producer González-Byass, a new facility opened in 2005 near the town. 15ha are planted on the property, and fruit is sourced from 45 growers, all organic. Besides the traditional cava grapes, there are 3ha of Garnatxa and 1.5ha of Pinot Noir planted for rosé.

wines tasted

Brut Reserva NV ($13)

50% Macabeu, 35% Parellada, 15% Xarel·lo. 18 months lees ageing. One of the best-value sparkling wines out there, complete with kitsch if striking bottle art.

Albert de Vilarnau Gran Reserva (vintage) (€35)

Five years ageing, a blend of two Xarel·lo selections, one fermented in chestnut barrel. Three and half years lees ageing A smoky, nutty, rich wine with vibrant acidity. There is a richness from the barrel fermentation, extremely well integrated.

Gran Reserva Rosado (vintage) (€35)

100% Garnatxa, 30% of it aged in concrete eggs due to the variety’s reductive nature. A pale orange appearance, the complex, herbal, high acid showcases the potential of Garnatxa for sparkling rosé.

Albert de Vilarnau Gran Reserva (vintage) (€30+)

50/50 Chardonnay/Pinot Noir. Five years lees ageing. Serious, mature, toasty; an interesting comparison to champagne given the grape varieties, but a fuller, fruitier style.

website www.vilarnau.es

email interna@gonzalezbyass.es

phone

address Carretera d'Espiells km 1,4, Finca Can Petit, Sant Sadurní d'Anoia