Vilarnau, Cava DO (Penedes, Spain) “Barcelona” Reserva Brut, Trencadís Edition NV

($15, Gonzalez Byass):   Don’t let the atypical packaging — an abstract art mosaic covering the entire bottle — put you off.  Nor that a company best known for their Sherry is making Cava.  A blend of two traditional grapes used for Cava, Macabeo and Parelleda, along with an atypical one, Chardonnay, Vilarnau provides a creaminess offset by a hint of bitterness.  It is a delightfully crisp combination, perfect as a stand-alone aperitif and equally suitable for a robust seafood stew.
88 Michael Apstein Jan 11, 2022