Shaya Habis 2023

Shaya sits in Aldeanueva de Codonal in the Segovia corner of D.O. Rueda, and Habis is its top Verdejo, drawn entirely from very old, low yielding vines planted on sandy loam soils. These deep, poor sands ripen the fruit slowly and hold vigour in check, giving small, concentrated berries. Where most Rueda Verdejo is made fresh in tank, Habis is fermented in 500 to 600 litre barrels and then aged eight months in the same wood on its lees. The large barrel format limits direct oak flavour while the extended lees contact and periodic stirring release mannoproteins that build a broad, creamy texture and add bready, savoury complexity. The wine reaches a ripe 15 per cent, and the barrel work balances that weight with structure. It is bright gold in the glass. The nose combines white peach and pear with toasted bread, beeswax and the dried herb note characteristic of old vine Verdejo. The palate is full and rounded, the lees texture wrapping a firm acidic core through to a long, nutty finish. Serve at 10 to 12 degrees in a large glass, and give it a moment to open.