I was delighted to find this fantastic Catalan white at a recent Lea and Sandeman tasting - 2022 Acústic Blanc from Acústic Celler in Montsant appellation of Catalonia.  

Founded in 2003 by winemaker Albert Jané, Acústic Celler takes its name and inspiration from the idea of being “acoustic” — creating wines in their purest, most natural form, without unnecessary amplification or manipulation. From old, dry-farmed vines in the DO Montsant region of southern Catalonia, the estate cultivates native varieties — Garnatxa Negra, Carinyena, Garnatxa Blanca, Macabeu, and Pansal — across diverse soils of clay, sand, and stone at altitudes between 300 and 700 metres. Today, the estate manages over 50 hectares, farmed organically, with a deep respect for biodiversity and the rhythms of nature.

Acústic Blanc is aged for seven months on its lees in a mix of oak, stainless steel, amphora and concrete egg; on the nose it is intense, complex and fresh leading to rich flavours of ripe pear, quince and citrus lifted by floral notes and a touch of honeyed minerality. All well and good, but what struck me on tasting the Acústic blanc for the first time was its layered, textural character, its wonderful velvety, luxurious mouthfeel balanced by ripe acidity and length. The fruit profile is structured and rich, but I think it’s the combination of lees ageing together with some ageing in new oak barrels that gives the wine these complex textural characteristics. It’s such a great example of thoughtful winemaking by Albert Jané,  who grows local varietals and has a deep respect for terroir, and it's a brilliant addition to our list!

It’s available by the glass, carafe or bottle - try with our starter dish of wild mushrooms with Parmesan polenta or with Jerusalem artichoke risotto or Sutton Hoo chicken breast with girolles. Salut!