Much like the Garnatxa Negre from Herencia Altes, I was deeply impressed by the Grenache Blanc. 100% varietal and coming from ancient, low-yielding, certified organic vineyards in Terra Alta, just west of Priorat, this Catalan white is unique, delicious, and also a stellar value.
This is a white that will appeal to those who like dry Chenin Blanc, White Rhones, and other exotic and aromatic white wines. Produced from a mix of young (15 years old) and very old (100+ years old) vines, there's a "chuggable" character to this wine, but if you give it your full attention, you'll realize that it's actually quite complex, layered, and interesting too.
2021 Herencia Altes Garnatxa Blanca
Fresh, vibrant, and mineralic white from Spanish Catalonia! - 93 points - Yours Truly
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Nuria Altes really needs to charge more money for her wines, but I won't be the one to tell her that :) She grew up in her family's vineyards in Terra Alta and for many years, she and her family just grew grapes and sold them to larger producers. That all changed in 2010, when Nuria and her partner Rafael established Herencia Altes and started making their own estate-grown wines. It was a good decision.
The "house specialty" here is Grenache, or Garnatxa as the locals call it, and Nuria and Rafa have a firm grasp on how to get the most out of their grapes. The biggest part of that equation is the old vines they work with, but it's not just that. Their Garnatxa Blanca is crafted like a much more expensive wine; organic farming, hand harvesting and sorting, native yeasts, and long aging on the lees to add textural richness and complexity. These extra measures require more time and energy and are usually reserved for wines that retail for $20+. When you get this into your glass, I think you'll understand.
The sandy and chalky soils of Terra Alta are perfect for Garnatxa Blanca, as this infertile and rocky terroir stresses the vines, lowers yields, and brings out more intense aromas and flavors and complex mineral notes. Pouring a brilliant straw-gold color, this exhibits aromas and flavors of pear, melon, tangerine, ginger, chamomile, and wet rock. Fresh, juicy, and concentrated on the palate, there's great intensity here, and this one finishes long and spicy.
A delightfully delicious and thought-provoking white, I highly recommend you pick up a six-pack. Enjoy with all sorts of fish and seafood preparations or enjoy it as an aperitif. Cheers to happy drinking and eating in Asheville!
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Josh Spurling
Owner, Operator, Wine Monger
Table Wine Asheville