Bimbache Blanco 2024

Bimbache Vinícola is the El Hierro project of Rayco Fernández and Pablo Matallana, who moved from Lanzarote to work a set of rare local varieties on one of the smallest and most westerly Canary Islands. This white blends Vijariego Blanco, Listán Blanca, Baboso Blanco, Forastera and Gual, field varieties that survive on the island's volcanic terrain. The soils are dark and free draining, built on lava and ash, and the Atlantic setting brings constant wind, salt air and cool nights that hold freshness even at the wine's ripe 14.6 per cent. Production is low intervention, with wild-yeast fermentation and six months in French oak barrels that add a light frame of oxygen and a subtle creamy weight rather than obvious wood. The colour is a deep straw. The nose shows ripe white peach and melon with beeswax, a saline lift and a smoky, mineral note drawn from the volcanic ground. The palate is broad and textured, the oak folded into the fruit, with a savoury, salt-tinged finish. Serve at 10 to 12 degrees in a white glass. It suits richer fish, roast chicken, pork and roasted root vegetables.