The 2011 El Bassots is produced with Chenin Blanc in contact with the skins, which give the wine a distinct orange color. It aged for one year in used oak barrels. The nose has hints of cider and beer, with notes of very ripe yellow fruit and of spices and chalk. The palate is much fresher than what the nose points to, with clean acidity, pungent flavors, quite long and refreshing. A white of strong personality. It should go well with spicy food or white meat. Drink now-2017. Joan Ramon Escoda started this project in 2003 and has 8.5 hectares of vineyards in Conca de Barbera. His wines are produced in the “natural” style, without addition of sulfur. As is often the case I find that whites behave better in this style. Importer: Vin de Terra Imports, Springfield, VA; tel. (703) 731-2058