Xarel-lo (shar-rell-oh), native to Catalunya, Spain, is a light-skinned grape that is valued for the juicy balance of sugar and acid it brings to wines. One of the most planted grapes in northeastern Spain, Xarel-lo shines as one of their most exceptional white grapes. With notes of lemon, peach, ginger, and almonds, Xarel-lo pairs fantastically with oysters, shrimp scampi, and turkey burgers.

Xarel-lo is most commonly found in Cava, Spain’s version of Champagne. Normally blended with Macabeu and Parellada grapes, Xarel-lo compliments the richness and freshness of the other grapes by adding body to the sparkling wine with its high acidity.

Ready to explore? Here are some of our fave Xarel-lo wines:

Agusti Torello Mata Cava Brut Reserva 2018

Castellroig Corpinnat Brut NV

Pares Balta Materia Prima Orange 2020

Grape Photo Credit - Josep Ma. Rosell