Legend and tradition. Banner and emblem. Pride and fulfillment. For centuries, the xarel·lo has been a temporal marker and defining characteristic of the finest wines from Cataluña.
Initially, this grape variety was not highly esteemed due to its light body, lack of color depth, and delicate aroma (indeed, its name derives from the Italian sciarello, which translates to light red wine in our language); however, it gradually found its niche as the ideal alternative during the phylloxera crisis. Nations such as France, whose vineyards had been devastated by this pest, began to import these white wines that arrived at their destination unstabilized, yet in impeccable condition, thanks to their high antioxidant levels. Nowadays, the legend of the xarel·lo continues to be written in capital letters, achieving great success, thanks to wineries like Celler Pardas where they craft Celler Pardas Pur Xarel·lo.
The relationship between Celler Pardas and xarel·lo is one of pure passion. At least three of this Catalan winery's productions revolve around this grape, which they consider to have "the greatest potential for aging." Just as these whites once withstood sea voyages without spoiling, they now endure extended barrel aging (where they can withstand up to half a year). Moreover, calcareous soils with low organic matter content are most suitable for this variety. The grapes for Pardas Pur Xarel·lo are cultivated in Vinya la Vella, an ancient vineyard that is now meticulously cared for using organic practices. Pesticides and chemical products are strictly forbidden on this land, located just south of the Penedès (southeast of Barcelona). Harvesting is done by hand, with each cluster carefully selected.
Celler Pardas Pur Xarel·lo will always be processed using gravity to ensure the quality and condition of the wine at every stage of production. After destemming and crushing, Celler Pardas Pur Xarel·lo will move to the press, where very gentle pressures are applied (yielding 55%). Now, after obtaining the must, it is time to experiment with the various tanks (a common practice at Celler Pardas). A portion of Celler Pardas Pur Xarel·lo ferments in French oak barrels, while others will do so in concrete eggs. Here, in these vessels, they will also undergo aging.
Celler Pardas Pur Xarel·lo has many years ahead in which time will work its magic, refining this white wine. With these somewhat limited-production bottles, Celler Pardas writes a new chapter in the history of this variety. Their unique vision and interpretation are embodied in Celler Pardas Pur Xarel·lo.