2023 Òrbita Venus Macabeu

René Barbier and the origins of Òrbita Venus

The name Òrbita Venus stands for adventure, collaboration, and a drive for innovation. At the heart of this project is René Barbier , an icon of the Priorat and founder of the renowned Clos Mogador . Barbier is a key figure in the Catalan wine world and a pioneer of modern quality wines from the region. With Òrbita Venus, he and his friends, winemakers Jordi and Sònia of Carlania Celler , are focusing on the lesser-known but promising Conca de Barberà wine region.

Barbier and his team's goal is to let local grape varieties express themselves in a new way. Òrbita Venus emerged from the Trepat project, which laid the foundation for a range of wines with a distinctive identity: refined, exciting, and transparent. The Macabeu 2023 is a pure white wine born from that same pursuit. Freshness, liveliness, and depth are central, without losing sight of the terroir.

Conca de Barberà – a region full of contrasts

The Conca de Barberà is located in the province of Tarragona, in inland Catalonia. Surrounded by mountains, the area benefits from a unique microclimate: warm days, cool nights, and a constant Mediterranean breeze. These temperature variations produce grapes with aromatic intensity and vibrant acidity.

The soil is rich in limestone and clay, which gives the wines tension and a subtle minerality. The Macabeu vines of Òrbita Venus come from two vineyards in Barberà de la Conca , one south-facing and one north-facing. This contrast in exposure gives complexity to the final wine: ripe fruit from the south-facing slope and freshness from the north-facing slope.

The wine Òrbita Venus Macabeu 2023

The Òrbita Venus Macabeu 2023 is made entirely from the local Macabeu grape (also called Macabeo). This grape, known from Cava, among other wines, takes on a completely different character here. The winemakers use a traditional yet innovative method that adds depth, texture, and complexity without sacrificing freshness.

Vinification and biological maturation

The harvest is divided into two parts. One portion of the grapes is pressed immediately, while the other remains in contact with the skins for a week. This gives the wine structure and subtle aromatic layers. Both portions are then aged separately for eight months in 500-liter oak barrels.

After this initial maturation, the barrels are opened and the second phase begins: biological maturation under flor (velo en flor). This process, inspired by winemakers Willy Pérez and Ramiro Ibáñez from the Jerez region, lasts another eight to nine months. Under the thin layer of yeast, the wine develops complexity and a light salinity, similar to Fino Sherry, but without fortification or oxidation.

Color, smell and taste

The Òrbita Venus Macabeu 2023 displays a light golden yellow color with a subtle coppery hue. The nose opens with aromas of apple, pear, and citrus, complemented by almond, chamomile, and a hint of bread crust. The floral influence lends a refined oxidative edge and an intriguing saltiness.

On the palate, the wine is dry, precise, and energetic. The attack is fresh, with lively acidity and a creamy texture that extends into a long, salty finish. The balance of fruit, floral notes, and a light spiciness makes this a wine with personality and depth. A perfect choice for lovers of pure, gourmet white wines with character.

The philosophy of Orbita Venus

Òrbita Venus embodies freedom and curiosity in winemaking. As the house itself puts it: "Òrbita Venus is risk, is fun, is learning." The wines are the result of collaboration, experimentation, and respect for nature. René Barbier brings his experience from the Priorat, while Jordi and Sònia add the fresh energy of Conca de Barberà.

The result is wines that remain true to their origins, yet forge a new path. The Macabeu 2023 demonstrates how subtle, complex, and elegant a white wine from Catalonia can be when tradition and innovation converge.

Would you like to order Òrbita Venus wines online?

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you these when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway with ample parking. Click here for our address. You can read full wine reviews from publications like Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator.

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Wine and food pairings

The 2023 Òrbita Venus Macabeu is a wine that truly shines at the table. Its combination of freshness, saltiness, and soft texture makes it versatile, pairing it with everything from refined fish dishes to light meat dishes and surprising vegetarian pairings.

• Grilled octopus with lemon and parsley – the salty notes of the wine enhance the pure taste of the octopus.
• Baked cod with saffron aioli – the creamy texture of the sauce complements the soft texture of the wine beautifully.
• Roasted chicken with thyme and almond – the spicy notes of the wine perfectly complement the earthy flavours of the dish.
• Risotto with fennel and Parmesan – the light bitterness and fresh acidity create a harmonious balance with the creamy rice.
• Salmon tartare with dill and lime – the freshness of the wine emphasises the delicacy of the raw fish.
• Ravioli with ricotta and sage butter – the buttery sauce and spicy sage enhance the soft, nutty notes of the Macabeu.