2006 Mata Kripta Gran Reserva Brut Nature

The 2006 Kripta is a blend of 45% Macabeu, 20% Xarello and 35% Parellada from 60+-year-old vines with no dosage. It has a lovely almond and brioche-scented bouquet with lemon rind and lime leaf, all with superb delineation. The palate is very refined on the entry with palpable minerality, great tension and poise. It possesses a minimalist, focused finish with hints of green apple, lime and a little vanilla pod. Excellent. Drink now-2018+. Although Agusti Torello was founded in 1950, this estate sold its Cava to other producers for twenty or thirty years before taking the plunge and bottling themselves. Their philosophy and tagline is: “Cava with soul,” something sceptics might smirk at, at least until they taste them. All fruit is sourced from Penedes from organically cultivated vines and they concentrate upon Reserva and Gran Reserva only. Importer: Andrew Bell, Wine Symphony, Inc., New York, NY; tel. (212) 226-8283; Casa Ventura Imports, Bellingham, WA; tel. (360) 303-1760

The 2006 Brut Nature Gran Reserva displays an expressive bouquet of slate/mineral, pear, apple, brioche, and white flowers. Dry, crisp, and refreshing on the palate, it has excellent depth, some complex flavors, and a lengthy finish. Agusti Torello Mata is one of Spain’s finest Cava producers. Only 20% of the estate’s production is exported; they are all vintage dated and carry the disgorgement date on the back label. Importer: Casa Ventura, Bellingham, WA; www.casaventuraimports.com