Alta Alella, Catalonia (Spain) Pansa Blanca 2020

 Perched in the Serralada de Marine Park overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, this beautifully positioned estate is located only 10 kilometers from Barcelona.  Alella is the smallest D.O. in Spain, but it risks becoming even smaller as urban development is squeezing out the vineyards (it now covers only 1 third of its footprint when it was established in 1956).  The estate’s Xarel-lo grapes (also known as Pansa Blanca) are hand-harvested.  This light, refreshing wine, with its aromatic hints of stone fruits and a minerally-salty finish, is an ideal choice for spring and summer enjoyment.  Xarel-lo grapes are often used in Cava.