Vendrell Rived "Miloca" Carinyena '24

Josep M. Vendrell Rived is one of our favorite producers in the region of Montsant in Spain. His small, family-run estate focuses on Montsant’s two defining grapes, Garnatxa (Grenache) and Carinyena (also known as Samsó or Carignan), producing wines that are firmly rooted in place and tradition.

Vendrell began producing wine under his own label in 2000, after years of working at the local Capçanes cooperative and selling the grapes he farmed. At the time, Montsant had not yet been established as a DO, and the wines were classified under the broader Tarragona appellation. His vineyards—many planted to old vines—are located in Marçà and Capçanes, two of the most respected zones within Montsant.

The vineyards are farmed organically, without synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides, and are regularly plowed to encourage deep root growth. This approach not only improves drought resistance, but also allows the wines to clearly reflect their underlying terroir. The winery itself mirrors this artisanal philosophy: modern and precise, yet intentionally small and manageable by a tight-knit team.

Miloca is a distinct label within the Vendrell Rived portfolio, easily identified by the owl on the label. Rather than following the traditional Montsant approach of blending Garnatxa and Carinyena, the Miloca wines are designed to showcase these varieties on their own, allowing each grape to speak clearly and independently.

The 2024 “Miloca” Carinyena showcase the youthful exuberance of this underrated grape variety. Grown in the Mas de l’Anís vineyard at the edge of Marçà, the grapes are manually harvested and macerated in stainless steel tanks for fifteen days. Fermentation and aging also takes place in stainless steel. 

Vibrant aromas of plum, fennel and spice. The palate is silky, with soft tannins, fresh acidity, and a long fruit driven finish. I love this wine paired with a roasted pork tenderloin with root vegetables. Absolutely delicious.