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

The 2011 Marques de Gelida Xarel-lo (another indigenous white varietal), which comes from a vineyard planted in 1940, is fermented and aged in a combination of stainless steel and French oak. The grapes are organically grown and yields are relatively low, which is essential for this varietal to have any flavor. The 2011 is a pale-colored, light-bodied, crisp white offering notes of lemon zest, vague hints of flowers and a citrusy palate. Drink it over the next month. This cooperative composed of six families of grape growers was founded in 1980, and has been represented by Jorge Ordonez for a number of years. The quality of their wines, especially the sparklers, has gone from strength to strength. This portfolio is probably the finest group of Vins El Cep sparkling wines that I have yet tasted. Readers should remember that the region of Penedes enjoys a Mediterranean Sea-influenced climate. Importer: Value Wines from Fine Estates from Spain, Dedham, MA, tel. (781) 461-5767; Fax (781) 461-2570; www.jorgeordonez.com

The 2010 Marques de Gelida Xarel-lo was aged sur-lie for 5 months. It reveals a charming perfume of jasmine, mineral, melon, and baking spices. This is followed by a racy, round, intensely flavored white with some elegance and balance. Drink it over the next 1-2 years. Importer: Jorge Ordonez, Fine Estates From Spain, Dedham, MA Tel: (781) 461-5767