Cénit Field Blend Contiesas 2023

Vinas del Cenit works in the Tierra del Vino de Zamora, in Castilla y Leon, and Contiesas revives the old field-blend tradition of planting and picking several white varieties together. The blend is led by Dona Blanca with other local whites, co-planted so the vineyard itself sets the balance. The high plateau of inland Castilla y Leon has a continental climate, with hot days and cold nights, and this wide diurnal range slows ripening late in the season, locking in aromatics and fresh acidity. The soils are poor, sandy and stony over clay, which keeps yields low. Ageing is brief, about three months in oak barrels, enough to add a little texture and roundness while keeping the wine fresh and fruit-driven; the short time in wood leaves the fruit clean and the acidity intact. The colour is pale, bright lemon. The nose is vibrant, with green apple, ripe pear and citrus lifted by white flowers and a light herbal note. The palate is fresh, dry and crisp, with a stony, mineral finish. Serve at 9 to 11 degrees in a standard white glass.