2019 Sara Pérez y René Barbier Gratallops Partida Bellvisos Blanc

When Rene Barbier Jr (Clos Mogador) together with his wife Sara Perez (Venus Universal and Mas Martinet) got the abandoned very old "coster" (steeply sloping traditional Priorat vineyard) back into production they thought they had bought a plot of Carinyena (Carignan) ... and to their great surprise they discovered that 40% of the plot consisted of Garnatxa Peluda (indigenous Grenache). This grape ripens before the Carinyena (Carignan) and gives more freshness. Coincidence and luck because it is the last piece of the puzzle that was needed to convey the balance of Bellvisos.

The Gratallops Partida Bellvisos Blanc is serious, subtle and very insinuating. As with a Clos Mogador (or a nice white Rioja, or white Hermitage) these wines have fresh oxidative notes. It is amazing that this does not feel like a white wine from a warm climate at all and has a great freshness. It has a bright golden yellow color and a serious and mineral taste, with a dry, mineral feeling that is like licking stones. Only 820 bottles of this top wine were produced and it is not surprising that if you have been taught by your father that this wine is best placed in the row Clos Mogador Nelin. 96/100 Parker.

The style of Partida Bellvisos Blanc is powerful and elegant at the same time: structured, mineral, slightly oxidative and complex , with aromas of dried herbs, citrus, quince, almond, floral notes and a salty, long finish. Its structure and tension make it a serious gastronomic white wine that combines well with layered, earthy and Mediterranean dishes.

Roasted or grilled white fish with hearty garnishes

Examples: Turbot with fennel and saffron butter, sea bass with lemon and herbs, cod with creamy lentils.

Why this is a good fit:
The wine has enough body and structure to accompany firm fish, while its fresh acidity and mineral undertones keep the dish in balance. The spicy, slightly oxidative character of the wine enhances the complexity of Mediterranean fish dishes.

Poultry or veal with a light gravy or white wine sauce

Examples: Roast chicken with rosemary and lemon, veal escalope with sage and beurre blanc, or guinea fowl with almond sauce.

Why this is a good fit:
The wine's creamy texture and fine acidity support white meat without being overpowering. At the same time, the wine's spicy and floral notes provide an aromatic harmony with the dish.

Vegetarian dishes with layers and umami

Examples: Risotto with mushrooms and Parmesan cheese, roasted cauliflower with tahini and lemon, or gnocchi with sage butter and pumpkin.

Why this is a good fit:
The wine can easily hold its own with rich, earthy vegetarian dishes thanks to its tension, structure and aromatic complexity. The salty note in the wine enhances umami and savouriness, while the acidity keeps it light.

Shellfish with herbs and a creamy or nutty component

Examples: Scallops with cauliflower cream, lobster with almond butter, or mussels with fennel and Pernod.

Why this is a good fit:
The wine offers a rich mouthfeel that matches the texture of shellfish, while the freshness and spiciness harmonize perfectly with the garnishes. The salty minerality enhances the maritime elements of the dish.

Ripe and salty cheeses

Examples: Matured goat cheese, old Manchego, 18-month Comté or Abondance.

Why this is a good fit:
The wine has enough power and acidity to counter the salt and fat of these cheeses, while its aromatic depth complements the nutty and ripe flavours of the dairy.

FACT: In the tab 'Attachments' you will find the official fact sheet of this beautiful wine. We will automatically send you this when you order this wine. The wine is in our conditioned Wine Warehouse and if you come to pick up the wine you will often also receive a nice discount. You will see your discount immediately when you choose 'Pick up' on the checkout page. We are located in Dordrecht almost next to the A16 with plenty of parking. Click here for our address.