Mirgin Exeo Evolució+ 2004 Gran Reserva Sparkling Wine

The Pujol-Busquets family explores the limits of extended ageing in Alta Alella with Mirgin Exeo Evolució Gran Reserva 2004 Brut Nature, aged for 18 years on its lees.

This wine also highlights a distinct landscape compared to the Penedès, the primary region for cava production. Set in a stunning amphitheatre overlooking the Mediterranean in Alella, just north of Barcelona, the vineyards thrive on granitic-sandy soils locally known as sauló.

The grapes come from Vallcirera, where the family makes their single-vineyard Cava de Paraje Calificado. Here they grow Pansa Blanca (Xarel.lo), which makes up 60% of the blend, and Chardonnay (40%).

The result is a deep, slightly creamy cava with remarkable finesse and the hallmark salty notes of the estate's wines. Despite its long ageing, it is in top form with small, fully integrated bubbles. Truly elegant, finely textured and restrained on the palate, it has a lively acidity and a long, persistent finish. Notes of dried herbs and nutty fruits lend it a distinct Mediterranean character.

Extended ageing for sparkling wines is an increasingly popular trend –and for good reason. Few qualities elevate a sparkling wine to the level of greatness like its ability to stand the test of time. This concept, well established in Champagne under the practice of late disgorgement, has gained momentum in Spain.

The second phase of ageing, which begins after disgorgement, adds new nuances to the wine and is usually left in the hands of the consumer. In our experience, most sparkling wines benefit from two to three years in the bottle after disgorgement (this is why the disgorgement date is an essential piece of information on the label). Under the right cellar conditions and depending on personal taste, some sparkling wines can deliver wonderful experiences after five to ten years, or even longer. 

€120 
Score: 95