Region and Vineyards
La Calma is rooted in the Massís del Garraf, a protected limestone massif southwest of Barcelona within DO Penedès. This rocky, sun-bleached terrain is defined by karst formations—chasms, caves, and sinkholes—and very shallow calcareous clay over dolomitic limestone. Maritime influences moderate the hot, dry summers, while active lime in the soils (up to about 40%) and a basic pH encourage low vigor and mineral-driven wines with notable length.
The single vineyard La Calma spans 2.5 ha at 290 m with north-east exposure, bringing freshness and aromatic lift. Chenin vines here are 40 and 25 years old, grafted to 41-B and trained in double Cordon de Royat to manage yields and ensure even ripening. The site's chalk, studded with marine fossils, underpins the wine's saline nuance and chiselled structure. Farming is certified organic; harvest is by hand and parcel-selective.
Winemaking
La Calma 2021 is 100% Chenin Blanc. Grapes are gently crushed and pressed without destemming to protect aromatic purity. Fermentation proceeds 80% spontaneously in temperature-controlled stainless steel for clarity and tension, and 20% in new and second-year French barrels to layer subtle toast and breadth.
Post-ferment, the wine ages six months on lees in barrel, building satin texture without heaviness, followed by two years' bottle aging for integration. Light fining and filtration; sulfur added only at bottling. Key figures: 13.0% vol, 0.2 g/L residual sugar, 5.7 g/L total acidity, 65 mg/L total SO₂. Certified organic, suitable for vegans and vegetarians; 1,200 numbered bottles. Serve at 10-12 °C.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Golden yellow with green glints; bright and limpid.
- Aroma: Peach and passion fruit lift over delicate smoke and mineral tones; a chalky, sea-spray impression frames the fruit.
- Palate: Fresh yet luscious; ripe white-fruit core, fine salinity, and creamy lees texture glide to a long, precise, limestone-etched finish.
Did you know?
Carlos Esteva pioneered Chenin Blanc in Penedès, shaping a distinctive Mediterranean expression inspired by Loire benchmarks but rooted in the Garraf's chalk and fossils—an origin story that defines La Calma's identity.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Cured Manchego or Comté: Nutty depth mirrors the wine's creamy lees texture while salinity refreshes the palate.
- Miso-glazed cod: Sweet-savory umami is brightened by stone-fruit notes; chalky cut keeps richness in check.
- Roast chicken with lemon and thyme: Orchard fruit and discreet smoke dovetail with roasted jus and herbs.
- Sushi and tempura: Purity of fruit and saline finish complement delicate textures and subtle seasoning.
