Parés Baltà: Penedès Beyond Cava
I’ve got a double dose of Penedès for you today—two remarkable values from one of the region’s most respected estates, Parés Baltà. At the helm is Marta Casas, who leads the winemaking with her husband Josep and brother-in-law Joan. In 2024, she was named Best Winemaker of the Year by Master of Wine Tim Atkin—an honor that reflects both her talent and the family’s long tradition of women shaping the cellar. For more than two decades, María Elena and Marta Cusiné carried that torch, and you can taste the continuity in today’s wines: precise, elegant, and full of finesse.
Family-owned since 1790, Parés Baltà balances deep tradition with forward-thinking farming. They were early adopters of organic and biodynamic viticulture, with sheep grazing to fertilize naturally and beehives fostering biodiversity. No pesticides, no herbicides—just healthy, living soils and vines tended with an eye toward future generations. True stewardship in every sense.
The Blanc de Pacs is a crisp, refreshing blend of native Xarel·lo, Macabeo, and Parellada—bright, lively, and full of energy. The Mas Petit blends Garnacha with a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon, bringing depth and richness while keeping its Mediterranean freshness. Penedès may be best known for Cava, but these bottles prove the region’s still wines deserve equal attention.
While most detailed reviews come from Spain and France, a few English-language notes have surfaced: the Mas Petit Tinto earned 92 points, though I’d argue the Blanc de Pacs is the real discovery here. Rarely does a white under $20 deliver such verve and vibrancy. Both wines shine with a light chill, and both are made for the table. Picture grilled octopus, smoky peppers, ripe tomatoes, and a wedge of Manchego—simple Mediterranean flavors elevated by wines made to match.
Wine Spectator 92 points
“This bold red marries ripe flavors of cherry, red plum and vanilla with tangy, citrusy acidity in a lively, sweet-tart character.Notes of mountain herb, spice and cocoa add interest. Angular yet generous.”-Thomas Matthews
“It reveals aromas of black fruits, liquorice and sweet spices. The palate is broad, rich, without being heady and enough freshness to keep everything in balance.”-Journal de Montreal–Patrick Désy
“This pale straw-colored wine offers aromas of Anjou pear and vanilla. It is bright at first sip and has flavors of grapefruit and pineapple that are joined by a soft floral note and a closing hint of salted almond.”-Mike DeSimone, Wine Enthusiast