Ton Rimbau (Porcellanic)

Ton Rimbau is widely considered one of the most radical, visionary, and uncompromising figures in the world of natural wine. Based in Vilobí del Penedès (Catalonia), he is the creator of the Porcellanic label. His work is not just about organic farming; it is a deep commitment to Permaculture, aiming to return the vineyard to the state of a wild forest.

Philosophy: Permaculture & "The Spider"

Rimbau's approach goes far beyond standard organic or biodynamic certification. His philosophy is built on non-intervention to the extreme:

• Permaculture: He does not till the soil. Instead, he allows a permanent cover crop of weeds, flowers, and legumes to grow, creating a complex ecosystem that mimics a forest floor.

• No Pruning (almost): Unlike most winemakers who prune heavily to control yield, Rimbau often lets his Xarel·lo vines grow wild. He believes that cutting a vine is an act of aggression that stresses the plant.

• The Spiders: Rimbau is famous for encouraging spiders in his vineyards (you will often see a spider symbol on his materials). He views them as the ultimate natural guardian against pests like the grape moth, eliminating the need for insecticides.

• Harvest: He harvests strictly by fruit days on the lunar calendar, often waiting until the grapes are very ripe (late harvest) to achieve maximum concentration and minerality.

Winemaking & The "Porcellanic" Bottle

Ton Rimbau’s winemaking is as unique as his farming. He works primarily with the Xarel·lo grape.

• Ceramic Bottles: The name "Porcellanic" comes from his use of heavy, opaque ceramic bottles instead of glass.

  • Why? The ceramic protects the wine completely from light (which can damage natural wine) and offers superior thermal inertia, keeping the wine cool even during transport.

• Underwater Aging: In a move that made him famous, Rimbau ages some of his wines underwater in large tanks or wells within the winery. He believes the kinetic energy of the water and the lack of oxygen/light create the perfect environment for the wine to settle and mature without oxidation.

• Zero Additives: No sulfites are added at any stage. The wines are pure fermented grape juice, protected only by the natural antioxidants of the Xarel·lo skins and the ceramic vessel.

Key Wines

His production is extremely limited and highly sought after by collectors.

• Vi Xarel·lo (Sur Lie): His signature white. Complex, golden, structured, and savory. It often displays notes of ripe stone fruit, dried herbs, and a distinct salinity.

• Espurnejant: A high-end sparkling wine (Ancestral method or similar to Cava but strictly natural) made from Xarel·lo.

• Bernat: A rare natural red made from Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot (depending on the vintage), treated with the same wild philosophy.