Raventós I Blanc, Manuel Raventós Negra Conca del Riu Anoia, Gran Reserva Personal 2008 – Spain – Penedes

Raventós is one of Spain’s masters when it comes to sparkling wines. This non-Cava (Raventós I Blanc winery chose to leave the appellation to affirm their search of excellence and constant effort to express the terroir of their land) is the exclusive result of the selection that the general director of Raventós i Blanc made of the best Xarel-lo, Macabeo and Parellada wines obtained that year. Due to its exceptional nature, it’s only bottled in the most special vintages. Conca del Riu Anoia is the name of a small geographical area, centered around the River Anoia Basin, with unique deposits of fossils within the limestone bedrock. A lively, minerally, golden blend, it boasts aromas of warm toast, citrus, honey and a Champagne-like brightness and elegance. It’s a brut nature, and only 3,425 bottles were made. This is the more evolved of the few vintages produced. It evokes lust with its flavorful palate, aromas of baked apple and sourdough bread, salty side, orange and a satisfying umami filled finish, steady and elegant. You can smell it for minutes and you’ll still be trying to figure out everything.