Russian writer Leo Tolstoy said, ‘the two most powerful warriors are patience and time’ and these characteristics are visible veterans of the historic winery, Mestres. Established in 1312, Mestres’ unique combination of mature vineyards, extensive ageing and traditional techniques make their Gran Reserva wines, particularly Mestres Cava, some of the most complex and aromatic of the region. Fermented first in fine grain barrels and then again in the bottle, Mestre wines are riddled by hand. The attention to detail afforded to the production of these wines extends to their exclusive use of grape varieties native to Penedès, including Xarel·lo, Macabeo and Parellada. Handpicked low yields preserve the quality of the grape and give these wines their distinctly Mediterranean character.