2023 Òrbita Venus Macabeu Trepat

The origin of Orbita Venus and the influence of René Barbier

At the heart of Orbita Venus is none other than René Barbier , an icon of the Catalan wine world and one of the founders of the modern renaissance of the Priorat . Barbier, known for the legendary Clos Mogador winery, has added a new chapter to his impressive career with Orbita Venus. His goal: to experiment with indigenous grape varieties and winemaking methods that stray from the beaten path, but always with respect for terroir and tradition.

The project arose from a collaboration with winemakers Jordi and Sònia, friends of Carlania Celler in Conca de Barberà. Under Barbier's leadership, they combine experience, curiosity, and expertise in a range of wines that exude freshness, energy, and authenticity. What began with the red Trepat has evolved into a small family of wines that now also includes a rosé and this striking white variety, the Orbita Venus Macabeu Trepat 2023 .

The Conca de Barberà region and its character

Conca de Barberà is located in the heart of Catalonia, north of Tarragona, and forms a natural basin surrounded by mountains. The altitude ranges from 350 to 700 meters, creating a significant difference between day and night temperatures. This allows the grapes to ripen slowly and retain their fresh acidity.

The soils consist primarily of limestone and clay, ideal for grapes that combine finesse and structure. The climate is Mediterranean with continental influences: abundant sunshine, dry summers, and cool nights. In these conditions, grape varieties like Trepat and Macabeu achieve a perfect balance of fruit, tension, and elegance. It is precisely this balance that forms the core of Orbita Venus's style.

The wine Orbita Venus Macabeu Trepat 2023

The Orbita Venus Macabeu Trepat 2023 is a balanced blend of 50% Macabeu and 50% Trepat, sourced from two carefully selected vineyards in Conca de Barberà. The Trepat grape, typically used for light red wines, adds refinement and spice. The Macabeu, a Catalan classic, adds structure, aromatic depth, and a slightly higher alcohol content. The latter allows the wine to age in a unique way: under a natural layer of flor.

Vinification and biological maturation

The grapes are pressed immediately after harvest and ferment naturally. The wine then ages for eight months in 500-liter oak barrels. Afterward, the wine is transferred for a second aging phase of another eight to nine months under a thin layer of yeast, known as velo en flor . This biological aging process is inspired by the work of Willy Pérez and Ramiro Ibáñez from the Jerez region.

The flor protects the wine from oxidation while simultaneously adding complex aromas of almond, bread crust, and a subtle saltiness. The result is a wine with layers and tension, where fruit, yeast, and terroir blend into an intriguing whole.

Color, smell and taste

The wine has a clear, golden yellow color with a coppery sheen. The aroma reveals notes of ripe apple, citrus, almond, chamomile, and a hint of yeast. The biological aging adds a delicate oxidative note, making the wine complex but never heavy.

On the palate, it displays a beautiful balance between freshness and softness. The structure is creamy, with lively acidity and a salty, lingering finish. The interplay of Macabeu and Trepat gives the wine a unique balance of elegance and character. A wine that invites repeat tasting and lends itself perfectly to gastronomic pairings.

The philosophy of Orbita Venus

Orbita Venus is all about freedom, experimentation, and enjoyment. As the producers themselves say: "Orbita Venus is risk, is fun, is learning." René Barbier's influence is clearly felt here. Just as in his work in Priorat, he strives for that pure expression of soil, climate, and grape. The Macabeu Trepat 2023 is a wine that embodies this philosophy: exciting, honest, and with its own unique identity.

Would you like to order Orbita 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

Orbita Venus Macabeu Trepat 2023 is a gastronomic wine with a wide range of uses. Its fresh acidity, salty notes, and light spiciness make it suitable for refined dishes from both Mediterranean and modern cuisines.

• Grilled sea bass with lemon and fennel – the salty notes of the wine enhance the fresh, spicy flavour of the dish.
• Risotto with green asparagus and Parmesan – the creaminess of the risotto contrasts beautifully with the lively acidity.
• Chicken with tarragon and white wine sauce – the spicy notes of tarragon complement the floral aroma of the wine beautifully.
• Tuna tartare with sesame and soy marinade – the umami and light saltiness find harmony with the floral notes of maturation.
• Roasted cauliflower with hazelnut butter and lemon zest – the nutty nuances enhance the wine's complexity.
• Veal sweetbreads with morels and cream sauce – the rich texture of the dish complements the depth and texture of the wine.