The 2012 Marques de Gelida Xarel-lo, made from the indigenous Xarel-lo grape, is their least expensive effort. From vines planted in 1940, fifty percent of the must undergoes fermentation in French oak and 50% in stainless steel. The wine is light-bodied, somewhat innocuous, but pleasant in a non-critical manner. With hints of grapefruit and apple skins as well as nicely formed, uniform bubbles, this 2012 is a very good value, and should be consumed over the next 1-2 years. A sparkling wine bodega owned by six families in Penedes, Vins El Cep has over 470 acres of vines planted at some of the highest elevations of the appellation. Most of the vineyards are cultivated organically, with no fertilization, spraying of herbicides or irrigation. Readers will be shocked by how good these sparklers are, particularly at these price points. Importer: Jorge Ordonez Selections,Dedham, MA; tel. (781) 461-5767: email:corporate@jorgeordonez.com