Agustí Torelló Kripta GR Brut Nature 2008 (x3)

The current vintage of the special cuvée is the 2008 Kripta, a classical blend of the local grapes Macabeo, Xarello and Parellada aged in contact with the lees in bottle for a long time, no less than five years, during which time the bottle is closed with a cork (it's usually a crown stopper). Apparently this gives the wine a different character and is the way it was traditionally done. This is a polished Cava with yeast and brioche aromas and a soft palate with clean, developed flavors and integrated acidity. A benchmark for the Cavas with five years in contact with lees. 24,300 bottles produced.

Now nearing a decade since the fruit was picked, this wine shows its age in its golden hue and powerful toasty aroma. The palate shows good concentration, decent weight, and a touch of elegance (from the 45% Macabeo) with an attractive grip on the finish.