La Orquesta Soto y Manrique 2021

Soto y Manrique is a small family winery in Villaverde de Medina, working vineyards planted in 1990 across granite, limestone and slate soils in the D.O. Cebreros. La Orquesta is a white blend of Verdejo, Albillo and Garnacha Blanca, and the aim from the start has been to show the character of these soils. The wine is aged for twelve months in clay amphorae on its lees. Clay is porous and allows a slow, gentle exchange of oxygen without adding wood flavour, so the wine gains texture and stability while the fruit stays clear, and the long lees contact builds body and a subtle savoury depth. The granite and limestone base runs through as freshness and a mineral, saline lift. The colour is pale gold. The nose shows dried fruits, ripe apricot and grapefruit over white flowers and dried herbs. The palate is textured and rounded from its time in clay, yet kept fresh and taut by firm acidity and a stony, savoury finish. Serve at 10 to 12 degrees. It works with white fish, shellfish and green salads.