Nelín 2021
43,85 €
Nelin – the depth of white Priorat
A blend of Garnacha Blanca and Macabeu proving that Priorat's white wines can also be rich and complex. Aged in oak, concrete and amphorae.
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The wine's story:
The 2021 vintage marks 20 years since Nelin's first release, which the Barbier family celebrated by refining the blend. Cariñena Blanca and Picapoll (local white grapes) now play a greater role, giving the wine more freshness and balance.
The result is the most complete Nelin to date – a wine that unites Priorat’s sun-drenched ripeness with fine elegance. A cooler growing season added vibrancy to the 2021 vintage. René Barbier Jr. calls it “a timeless gastronomic pause… complex and elegant”, suiting those who appreciate deeper white wines.
Winemaking:
- Garnacha Blanca, Macabeo, Xarel·lo, Picapoll Blanca and others – the vines grew interplanted.
- Direct pressing, this time with little skin contact.
- Wild-yeast fermentation, varieties co-fermented together.
- Aged for 12 months in oak (used 300L barrels + a large foudre), then 6 months in stainless steel.
- 14% alcohol, lower than in previous years thanks to changes in the varietal mix.
- ~10 000 bottles produced, bottled in May 2023.
Tasting notes:
The nose is deep, ripe and mineral, interweaving honey, ripe apricots and peaches, apple peel, camomile tea and dried Mediterranean herbs. An initial smoky, reductive note gives the wine a wild character; as it opens, nutty creaminess and white flowers appear. On the palate it is full and textured ("voluminous, yet fine"), with a core of juicy pear and quince, joined by almond, fennel and mineral salinity. A long, evolving finish with orange peel and slate. The acidity balances the richness, giving the wine verve. A white wine that behaves like a red – decanting helps to open up its layers.
Food pairing:
This wine calls for rich, nuanced dishes. Ideal with roast poultry (guinea fowl with herbs, chicken in a cream sauce), seafood such as lobster Thermidor or grilled monkfish, and pheasant with mushroom sauce.
Also pairs well with aromatic cuisines – Chinese and Japanese dishes, where umami, soy and ginger complement the wine's texture. A classic Catalan match is calçots with romesco sauce, as well as aged cheeses and seafood paella.
Ageing potential:
An unusual white wine that can develop for 10+ years. The 2016 vintage is now in a superb phase, but will hold its character until at least 2026. Over time it becomes spicier and more mineral.
Ratings & accolades:
Robert Parker Wine Advocate – 96/100
Vinous – 94/100
Wine Spectator – 92/100
| Weight | 1,4 kg |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 33 × 26 × 3,5 cm |
| Region | Priorat |
| Grape variety | Cartoixà, Garnacha Blanca, Macabeo, Picapoll Blanc, Xarel·lo |
| Food pairing | Asian cuisine and spicy dishes, Oysters and seafood, Hard cheeses, Poultry, Duck and game birds, Mushrooms and truffle |
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