Sara I Rene Partida Bellvisos Blanc 2019

Sara i René Barbier launched Partida Bellvisos in 2001 after acquiring Els Bellvisos, a steeply terraced, abandoned vineyard in Priorat surrounded by holm oak forest. The 2019 Gratallops Partida Bellvisos Blanc is a skin-contact white fermented in 380-liter amphorae and aged nine months in a 600-liter Austrian oak demi-muid, made from estate Garnacha Blanca, Trepat Blanco, and Macabeo grown on 65-year-old certified-organic vines rooted in Priorat's characteristic llicorella slate. Only 800 bottles were produced, making this one of the most limited-production natural whites from the appellation available in Chicago. René Barbier, founder of Clos Mogador, and his wife Sara Pérez of Mas Martinet established this project to make wines "at one with nature" in an uncompromising, sustainable framework that closed the circle between vineyard and cellar. The Bellvisos vineyard sits on a dramatic coster slope where llicorella slate and Mediterranean scrubland define the terroir. The winemaking follows biodynamic principles: whole-cluster fermentation with native yeasts, extended skin maceration for a month in amphora, and minimal intervention throughout the élevage in thick-staved Austrian oak. The result is a white of power and concentration that captures the tension between the high-altitude slate minerality and the waxy, pollen-laden character of old-vine Garnacha Blanca. The palate shows layers of stone fruit—white peach, nectarine—alongside floral notes and a saline finish that reflects the slate soils. Bright acidity provides structure, while subtle tannins from the extended skin contact lend grip and a textural roundness without heaviness. The wine is full-bodied but remarkably fresh, with less pronounced tannin than earlier vintages, making it more immediately approachable while retaining the complexity and depth Priorat is known for. Pair it with Mediterranean cuisine—grilled octopus, roasted chicken with herbs, aged Manchego—or drink it on its own as a study in tension and balance. Available for pickup at Off Premise Chicago, 1128 W Armitage Ave in Lincoln Park, local Chicago delivery, or nationwide shipping.