Partida Creus HY Hydromiel Mead NV

The moniker Partida Creus references the historical use of crosses to delineate property holdings. Massimo Marchiori and Antonella Gerona, a couple hailing from Piedmont, Italy, initially relocated to Barcelona due to their architectural pursuits. Circa 2000, they transitioned to a rural setting in Massís de Bonastre (Baix Penedés), driven by the quest for a more tranquil lifestyle, characterized by the region's clay and limestone soils.

While they began by farming various local produce, the scarcity of wines reflecting their natural farming ethos led them to venture into winemaking. They embarked on a journey to recover old vines of indigenous grape varietals, many of which were in vineyards on the verge of abandonment. Upon discovering a new vineyard, their approach involves identifying the owner in the nearby town, proposing either a purchase or an organic farming arrangement.

Their endeavor is perceived as unconventional due to the advanced age and low yield of the vineyards, coupled with the obsolete nature of the grape varietals. Some of these varietals, like Sumoll, had been disqualified from D.O. designation for lack of color, while others never gained acceptance. Despite these challenges, the couple is now recognized for their exceptional natural wine production, employing grapes that local viticulturists had forsaken for more "international" varietals. Through this initiative, they contribute significantly to the organic wine and natural wine narrative, showcasing the potential of indigenous grape varietals in producing distinctive wines.