Marta Casas, from Parés Baltà, has been awarded the prestigious title of ‘Winemaker of the Year’ by the renowned British wine writer and Master of Wine, Tim Atkin, in his long-awaited first report on Catalan wines ‘Special Report Catalonia 2024’. This well-deserved accolade highlights Marta Casas’ dedication to winemaking, representing a family of winegrowers from Pacs del Penedès, whose history in vine growing dates back to 1790.
Fintan Kerr, responsible of the Catalan Special Report, described this recognition as follows: “We were looking for consistency in all the wines of a winery, that’s why we gave this award to Parés Baltà that has an impressive quality in all its line of wines. There is no lack of anything. All the wines are very good”.
Hailing from the picturesque town of Vilanova i la Geltrú, Marta Casas, alongside her husband Josep and brother-in-law Joan, proudly represents the third generation of a family that started bottling its own wines in 1970.
Marta expresses her gratitude, stating, “This recognition is a testament to the collective effort shared with the Cusiné family and our entire team, who work tirelessly to craft wines that reflect our passion and the essence of our land.”
Marta’s journey into winemaking began during her time studying Pharmacy at Barcelona University from 1995 to 2000. During her studies she met her future husband, Josep Cusiné. It was during this period that her fascination with the world of wine ignited. Driven by her passion, Marta pursued studies in oenology, ultimately becoming one of the head winemakers at the cellar. Encouraged by the Cusiné family and together with her sister-in-law, Maria Elena, Marta spearheaded a revolution in winemaking practices, prioritizing wines that honored the unique terroir, aiming for maximum character and identity.
Over the span of two decades, Marta and the family have curated a remarkable collection of terroir-driven wines within the DO Penedès, including Electio (100% Xarel·lo), Hisenda Miret (100% Red Grenache), and Satèl·lit (100% White Carignan), alongside offerings within the DO Cava – Blanca Cusiné, Rosa Cusiné, and Cuvée de Carol.
At the heart of the family’s winemaking philosophy lies a profound commitment to the land and a strong respect for the fruits it produces. That’s why Parés Baltà has always chosen to farm organically –biodynamic since 2013 – and use as little interference as possible in the winemaking process. This approach results in well-balanced wines that capture the unique flavors of the native and ancient grapes and the special land where they grow.
We are honoured to be able to share this recognition with all of you and we hope to see you soon in the winery to make a toast together.
