($25, Augustan Wine Imports):  Raventós i Blanc, one of the leading Cava producers, left the Cava DO in 2012 to highlight their unique and individual terroir around the Anoia River Valley.  Their wines are no longer labeled Cava, but instead with what they hope will become a DO, Conca del Riu Anoia.  Millions of years ago the Anoia River Valley was covered by the sea as evidenced by the marine fossils in the limestone bedrock.  This unique terroir, Raventós i Blanc’s biodynamic viticulture, and their high standards explain why their wines, including this di Nit, are so riveting.  For all their wines they use only native varieties.  For di Nit, it’s a blend of Xarel-Lo, Macabeo, Parellada, and a touch of Monastrell, which adds enormous complexity and the barest hint of copper color.  So, instead of a seductively looking pink Rosé, you get a marvelous mixture of delicate red fruits supported by intriguing minerality all supported by firm acidity.  Its palette-caressing texture allows you to enjoy it as a stand-alone aperitif, while its substance and structure imparts enough oomph to stand up to flavor-filled Asian fare.
92 Michael Apstein Jul 11, 2023