Who makes it?
Llopart Clos del Fòssils is one of the numerous unquestionably interesting finds amongst the Llopart family wines. The family have a very long history in making sparkling wines in Penedés region, dating from 1887. Solidifying their passion about high quality fizz, Llopart is also one of the wineries under the Corpinnat brand of Sparkling wine.
Penedès is a region sitting squarely between Barcelona and Tarragona. Xarel-lo is one of the focus grapes for the region. It is also one of the traditional trio of grapes that is used to make Cava, the term used for Spanish sparkling wine. The other two grapes are Macabeo, which is also the white grape Viura and the other grape is Parellada. Of course, Viura is highly prized as the main grape used for Rioja Blanca.
It is therefore no surprise that some of the Xarel-lo vineyards that the family have were planted with that grape as far back as 1935. They have some 80+ year old vines there. Those grapes are reserved for very fine sparkling wines that go on to be aged for more than 13 years.
The Llopart family wines are all organic. Come 2025, all wines produced in Penedès will be certified Organic.
For more information as to how an organic wine is made, please read ‘I always thought that wine was a natural product’.
Please click here to read more about Corpinnat wines.
How do they make it?
The grapes for this particular wine come from the Clos del Fòssils area of Penedès. It will be no surprise that these vineyards are rich in limestone, complete with fossils. The wine is made from 100% Xarel-lo. Furthermore, after fermentation, the wines are matured in oak. The wine rests for around 6 months in French oak and acacia barrels.
For more information about Xarel-lo please read: Xarel-lo : The grape with the X factor & why we love it!
What does it taste like?
The aromas wafted from this wine are of baked apple, fresh herbs and perfumed with an elderflower hint. There are also some spice notes there that becomes stronger on the palate. The wine is bone dry, yet it is juicy and creamy. It is a rather elegant white wine. The oak adds further flesh to the body. A lush silky texture further highlights this fuller body. On the finish, it is not only spiced apple and light butter and cream. There is a hint of bitter almond that persists into the finish.
What to drink it with?
Roast chicken, or particularly chicken with a herb rub will be a great match here. Fried gnocchi with some crumbled prosciutto or some truffle shavings too. Don’t forget that a classic seafood paella will be a traditional pairing.
Cheese
Enjoy with grilled haloumi, or with fresh cheese such as feta or chevre or with a creamy cheese such as a herb flavoured cream cheese.
Quickie review « Fresh and lightly buttery, this white wine is silky smooth and fruity, yet undoubtedly savoury. »
Country of Origin: Penedès, Spain
Tasting Date: October 2023
Price: UK £ 18 | €13
Drink: now –3+ years
Needs food: no
Source: tasting
If you like Xarel-lo wines and this Llopart Clos del Fòssils, why not check out:
Jean Leon Nativa Xarel-lo
Sumarroca Il-logic Xarel-lo
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