Majuelo del Chiviritero 2024

Majuelo del Chiviritero comes from Isaac Cantalapiedra and his son Manuel, a family project in the heart of Rueda made under the wider V.T. Castilla-León. The grape is Verdejo, the region's signature white, farmed organically on limestone-rich soils. This chalky ground reflects heat and drains well, and it lends the wine a firm, saline tension that runs beneath the fruit. Rather than the crisp, tank-fermented style typical of Rueda, this bottling is barrel aged and spends nine months on its fine lees. The oak and extended lees contact work together: slow oxygen exchange through the barrel and the steady breakdown of the yeast cells build texture, volume and a gentle nutty, creamy complexity, while regular contact with the lees protects the wine and keeps it fresh. The colour is bright straw yellow. The nose is layered, with hay and chamomile infusion, citrus and ripe white peach, backed by a discreet note of vanilla and toasted hazelnut from the wood. The palate marries depth and volume with a vibrant limestone freshness, closing long and savoury. Serve at 11 to 13 degrees in a broad glass. It suits roast poultry, richer fish and hard cheeses.