Ossian 2023

Ossian is a single variety Verdejo from Nieva, high on the plateau of Segovia in Castilla y León, made by Ossian Vides y Vinos, a project within the Pago de Carraovejas stable. The vineyards are old and ungrafted, planted on sandy loam soils whose loose texture kept phylloxera at bay, so the vines grow on their own roots, unusual in Spain. Farming is certified organic and the grapes are picked by hand. The altitude gives a wide diurnal range, cold nights preserving acidity and aromatic detail while warm days ripen the fruit. The wine is fermented and aged nine months on its lees in barrel. Lees ageing and the slow oxygen exchange of the barrel add texture and a savoury depth, while stirring keeps the palate broad and creamy rather than sharp. The wine is bright gold. The nose is complex and savoury, with wood smoke, dried herbs and a mineral edge over lemon and stone fruit. The palate is full and textured, the fruit backed by a nutty, herbal length. Serve at 10 to 12 degrees in a white wine glass. It works with roast chicken, grilled white fish, mushrooms and mature hard cheeses.