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Marques De Gelida Xarel-Lo

7/8/2013

1 Comment

 
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Ever heard of Xarel-Lo?  Odds are you probably haven't unless you are extremely knowledgeable.  What you probably have heard of though is the sparkling wine Cava.  (A widely known brand of Cava is Friexenet.)  Cava is primarily made of 3 grapes.  Those are Macabeo, Parellada and Xarel-Lo.  Recently, companies have been adding Chardonnay as well as Pinot Noir in Rose versions.

It is extremely rare to find Xarel-Lo (also known as Pansa Blanco) as a single varietal wine.  It is because it can be difficult to grow due to it being prone to frost damage.  It is also known to be highly acidic if not produced right.  If made right and their are no problems with the grapes, it can make a wonderful white wine.  Leave it to Jorge Ordonez Selections to bring us something a little different and completely knock it out of the park.

I will admit, I have only tried one other Xarel-Lo in my lifetime and was not overly enthralled.  That is not the case with Marques De Gelida Xarel-Lo. It is a game changer.

I love what the label says on this wine so I will let it do the talking:

"Our estate vineyards are bathed in warm Mediterranean sun while being protected from harsh north winds by the jagged mountains of Monserrat.  The chalky sandy soils are the perfect environment for growing the delicate varietal, Xarel-Lo.  The subtle minerality it adds to the delicate floral and bright fruit flavors create a well balanced glass of white wine, perfect for a summer day."

The first bonus is that it is organically grown.  This is huge in my house because my wife loves anything organically grown.  The 2nd bonus is that it retails right around $13 a bottle.  I think it is well worth the price for not only a great wine but also for the interest that will ensue at your next gathering.   It's just as fun to say as it is to drink!

Marques De Gelida Xarel-Lo in  a nutshell:

Description:  Crisp and Bright.  Slightly floral nose with hints of lime zest.  Great flavors of citrus and stone fruit on the palate.  Good lemon-like acidity on the finish.

Pairing:  A nice compliment to a big plate of Sashimi.  Would also go great with appetizers such as Escargot or Thai Spring Rolls.
 
Vintage/Price: Current vintage is 2011.  Like I mentioned earlier, it will cost you right around $13 dollars.  Well worth the cost.  I would pay $20 for it because of the uniqueness of this wine.


For more information on Marques De Gelida Xarel-Lo and other wines from Jorge Ordonez, please go to: Grupo Jorge Ordonez


1 Comment
Alan Tinnes
8/12/2013 10:39:48 pm

nice article!!

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    Quick Blurbs about off the radar varietals and blends that will stretch your palate away from the common, everyday wines. 

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