Cal Tiques

the Xarel-Lo revival

Born in the Penedès, to a family with vineyards, Joan Rubió's path seemed clear. After attending the Taragona School of Viticulture, he returned to the family estate, selling the grapes to the large Cava producers in the area, as his parents and grandparents had done before him.

It was the meeting with Ton Mata, from the Recaredo winery, that changed his destiny. While supplying grapes to this prestigious Cava house, Ton, whom he had met at school in Taragona, decided to take him on in the family business. Two years later, Joan Rubió became technical director of Recaredo, a position he held for almost 13 years. It was during these years that he met Pierre Masson, the pope of biodynamic viticulture, during a conference the latter gave in Spain on the benefits of more responsible viticulture. Joan was captivated, at last a vision of agriculture that emphasised the "living" and the balance between the soil, the plants, the vines and the fauna. On his return, he set about converting the entire 50 hectares of Recaredo to biodynamic farming, a challenge that was equal to his ambitions.

In 2015, Joan decided to take the plunge, and Cal Tiques was born, "his" estate, which he manages with his wife, Àngels. 10 hectares of vines bursting with life, the result of more than ten years of organic and biodynamic work. Plants, flowers, strong vines and healthy grapes. Attention to detail is present at every stage of the winemaking process, from the choice of amphorae to the care taken during maceration.

The wines reflect this hard work magnificently, they are lively, expressive, deep and have a rare energy and minerality. Xarel-Lo is the main grape variety, but Joan and Àngels also work with Macabeu and recently with Tempranillo, thus completing their range with a light and easy-drinking red.

Each label, designed by a friend of the couple, tells a story, illustrating the wine. A refreshing vision of the Penedès to discover with no delay...