Mas Elena 2020 Pares Balta

Mas Elena 2020: Elegance and Finesse from the Penedès

Vineyard Philosophy

Mas Elena 2020 comes from vineyards located between 300 and 400 meters above sea level, where Mediterranean sunshine meets cooler mountain breezes. The estate is farmed using certified organic and biodynamic practices, preserving biodiversity and soil vitality. The grapes are harvested by hand, with careful bunch selection to ensure varietal expression and natural balance.

Winemaking Approach

In the cellar, Mas Elena is vinified with patience and respect for each grape variety: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc ferment spontaneously in stainless steel tanks, each on its own. Maturation follows in French oak barrels for 12 months, adding structure and refinement. No additives, no shortcuts—just precision, time, and intuition.

Tasting Notes

Deep ruby red with garnet edges.
The nose is complex and layered, offering ripe black plum, wild berries, sweet tobacco, spices, and balsamic undertones.
On the palate, it is full-bodied and velvety, with fine tannins, fresh acidity, and a persistent, toasted finish.

Food Pairing

Mas Elena 2020 is a natural match for richly flavored dishes: braised meats, lamb chops, beef filet with pepper sauce, or wild mushroom risotto. A great choice for aged cheeses or slow-cooked stews, and also an excellent wine to enjoy on its own by the fire.

Technical Sheet

• Appellation: Organic red wine

• Vintage: 2020

• Grapes: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc

• Region: Penedès Superior, Spain

• Altitude: 300–400 m a.s.l.

• Vinification: spontaneous fermentation in stainless steel

• Ageing: 12 months in French oak barrels

• Alcohol: 14% vol

• Certifications: Organic, Biodynamic (Demeter), Vegan

• Ageing potential: 8–10 years

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Pares Balta: Family Tradition and Visionary Spirit

A Story of Family and Wine

Founded in 1790, Pares Balta is a family-owned winery nestled in the heart of Penedès, Catalonia. For over two centuries, the Cusiné family has cultivated a legacy of passion, authenticity, and deep respect for the land. Today, the estate is led by the third generation, joined by two female winemakers—daughters-in-law of the family—who have infused the project with a fresh, sustainable vision. The blend of historical knowledge and modern, female-driven innovation has turned Pares Balta into a global benchmark for organic and biodynamic wines.

Philosophy in the Vineyard

Pares Balta practices certified biodynamic viticulture across more than 200 hectares spread across the hills and mountains of Penedès. Each plot is farmed with a strong commitment to nature, without synthetic chemicals, and in harmony with the lunar calendar. The diversity of altitudes—reaching up to 800 meters—allows the grapes to develop unique characteristics, ensuring freshness, complexity, and varietal expression. Sheep and bees raised on the estate play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance, turning the vineyard into a self-sufficient, living organism.

Approach in the Cellar

The winemaking philosophy is minimalistic and respectful. Fermentation takes place with wild yeasts, naturally selected from each vineyard, in order to capture the truest expression of the land. A variety of vessels—stainless steel, cement, oak barrels, and amphorae—are used to highlight the personality of each wine. Sulfites are kept to a minimum, and human intervention is carefully balanced, following a “non-interference” principle. The result is vibrant, pure wines that elegantly express their origin.

Wines and Recognition

Among the most emblematic labels is Gratavinum 2πr, a deep and Mediterranean red from the high-altitude vineyards of Priorat, where Pares Balta manages a second estate. Noteworthy also are the Blanc de Pacs, fresh and mineral, and the acclaimed Cava Blanca Cusiné, a traditional method sparkling wine aged extensively on the lees. Pares Balta wines are exported to over 40 countries and have been praised by international critics like Robert Parker and James Suckling. Despite global success, the winery remains deeply rooted in craftsmanship and tradition.