2021 Albet I Noya Lignum Blanc

This domain is the bio-pioneer of Spain. Josep-Maria Albet i Noya introduced this new concept in Spanish vineyards in 1979. Together with his brother Toni, they currently control over 100 hectares of ecological vineyards. The two brothers are not sitting still, because in the meantime they have projects in Rioja, Priorat and have started a search for forgotten old grape varieties. In 25 years, they have succeeded in making better wines every year and continue to surprise the consumer. They are located in San Pau d'Ordal (Alt Penedès), a good 35 km south of Barcelona, and not so far from Sant Sadurni d'Anoia, the capital of the cava.

Josep-Maria is an oenologist who knows what he wants and goes for his goal rigorously. As a young man, he already resolutely opted for organic wine growing, against the then trends and large domains. Today he is still ahead of everything else; He has not used 100% new barrels for a long time because he wants the fruit to be given priority over wood use, a philosophy that would benefit more wine growers in Spain ... Meanwhile, he has also developed all kinds of techniques to make wine as natural as possible. with the addition of the minimum sulfur.

The prestigious American website JamesSuckling.com awarded four Albet i Noya wines a score of 92 points! These are Reserva Martí 2011 and Lignum negre 2015 for red wines, and Fanio 2016 and Lignum Blanc 2016 for white wines.

The Reserva Martí 2011 is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot and Ull de Llebre. Suckling emphasizes the freshness, which is preserved over time, and the beautiful way in which the wine matures. At the Lignum 2015 he was amazed by the attractive aromas of liquorice, chocolate and cherry liqueur.

The de Fanio 2016 he mainly comments on the complex texture and the hint of candied citrus and dry sage. He sees the Lignum Blanc 2016 as a wine with a "very distinctive personality", while also noting that the wine is very refreshing.

In addition, not only were these 4 wines awarded, but also the Clàssic Penedès Brut 21, the Xarel.lo Curiós and the Tempranillo Curiós 90 points!