Artesano Vintners Xerinola 2022

Artesano Vintners is a small-scale natural wine project founded by Mike Shepherd and Alex Craighead, based in Catalonia, Spain. They are known for producing wines with a minimal-intervention philosophy, using organic farming methods and spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts. Their vineyards are located in Conca de Barberà and Alt Camp, two areas with distinct Mediterranean climates and soils rich in calcified stone, clay, and sand. This terroir imparts a unique character to their wines​.

Artesano Vintners works with indigenous Catalan grape varieties, including Macabeu, Xarel-lo, and Parellada. They use techniques such as skin contact and fermentation in old French oak barrels, resulting in wines that are texturally complex and full of flavor. Their wines are unfiltered, unfined, and made without added sulfites, exemplifying their commitment to natural winemaking​. The winery is gaining a reputation for its fresh, vibrant wines that balance bright acidity and creamy texture with notes of citrus, herbs, and subtle oak influences​.

Penedès, located west of Barcelona in Catalunya, Spain, is a key player in the natural wine world. Recognized as Catalunya's most vital wine district, Penedès boasts the prestigious DO (Denominación de Origen) status. This region is globally celebrated for producing outstanding Cava sparkling wines crafted using the traditional Champenoise method.

In Penedès, the Mediterranean climate shapes the terroir, featuring mild winters and hot summers. The region is divided into three subregions: Baix Penedès (Low Penedès), Medio Penedès (Middle Penedès), and Alt Penedès (High Penedès). Each area presents unique climatic variations influenced by factors like altitude and proximity to the coast. The soil composition in Penedès is diverse and predominantly calcareous, but it also includes sandy and clayey varieties.

The red wines of Penedès are typically blends of local grape varieties. The main red grape, Tempranillo, is complemented by Garnacha (Garnatxa), Monastrell, and Carinena. Penedès winemakers have innovatively blended these native varietals with international grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, producing increasingly notable results.

As for white wines, Penedès is expanding its repertoire beyond its famous Cava. Traditional native varietals like Xarel-lo, Macabeo, and Parellada, typically used in Cava production, are now also being crafted into delightful still wines. The introduction of Chardonnay, both in Cava blends and as a standalone varietal for still wines, is a growing trend in the region, adding a new dimension to Penedès's natural wine offerings.