The Pansa Blanca
Grape
A white grape variety native to the Alella region near Barcelona, Spain, also known as Xarel·lo in other parts of Catalonia. Pansa Blanca is used to produce crisp, mineral-driven white wines with flavors of lemon, green apple, and saline notes, often showcasing the coastal influence of the region.
Pansa Blanca
Grape History
Pansa Blanca, also known as Xarel-lo, is a white grape variety that is native to Spain and is particularly prominent in the Catalonia region. It is widely planted in the Penedès region, where it is one of the three traditional grape varieties used in the production of Cava, a sparkling wine that has gained international acclaim.
The history of Pansa Blanca dates back to ancient times, with some sources suggesting that it has been cultivated in Catalonia for over 1,000 years. The name "Xarel-lo" is believed to have originated from the word "Xarel" – a term used to describe the branches of the vine that grow horizontally – due to the unusual growth pattern of the grapevine.
Pansa Blanca is known for its thick skin, which helps it to withstand the hot and dry Mediterranean climate of the region. It typically produces wines that are crisp, aromatic, and have a good level of acidity. In addition to being used in the production of Cava, Pansa Blanca is also used to make still white wines that are fruity and aromatic.
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in Pansa Blanca both in Spain and internationally. Winemakers are increasingly recognizing the potential of this grape variety to produce high-quality still white wines that showcase the unique terroir of the region. As a result, more vineyards are now being planted with Pansa Blanca, and new winemaking techniques are being explored to bring out the best characteristics of the grape.
Pansa Blanca is a versatile grape variety that can be used to produce a wide range of wines, from light and refreshing to more complex and full-bodied. Its ability to retain acidity even in warm climates makes it a valuable asset for winemakers looking to produce balanced and elegant wines.
Overall, the future looks bright for Pansa Blanca, with continued innovation and experimentation in the vineyard and winery likely to further enhance the quality and reputation of wines made from this grape variety. As consumers become more interested in exploring unique and terroir-driven wines, Pansa Blanca is well-positioned to attract attention and appreciation for its distinctive qualities.
Introduction
Hello, my name is Franklin Laurel - Welcome!
I started drinking wine in 1992 when I was in my early twenties and recently married. Like many other young Southern Californians, it started out with White Zinfandel. As we were a couple of young DINKs just beginning life together, and on a budget, our go-to-wine was Sutter Home White Zinfandel, which tasted a lot like wine coolers and probably cost at the time $2.49. If we really were going to splurge, we would step it up and buy Beringer White Zinfandel for $2.99. Those were the days....
After a little time, we decided to get fancy. We stepped up our game and bought some wonderful 2-Buck Chuck from Trader Joe's. The Charles Shaw (Trader Joe's Exclusive Label) wine, also known as 2-Buck-Chuck extended our pallet into Reds for only $1.99 a bottle. Over the years we continued to grow in our understanding of wine (finally ran into some good wine) and we slowly kept buying better and better bottles.
Our first wine club purchase was from Kenwood's Vineyards, in Kenwood, California located in Sonoma Valley, right next to the famous Napa Valley. I began to learn about tobacco leather, and earthiness, and lots of other strange terminology when tasting their signature Zinfandels (of the red variety). So that is how it all began.
Fast forward a couple decades, and we have been members of five different wine clubs, and now have a passion for California's red wines. My favorite by far is Cabernet Sauvignon, while my wife fancies a good Syrah, Malbec, or Merlot - but she also loves the smell of a wine barrel room, which is all about the notes of Cabernet Sauvignon.
As I come across great wine resources and useful information that I find in planning my own wine trips, I will share here for anyone that might stumble across my humble website.
Cheers! - Franklin Laurel