Verónica Ortega Cobrana 2023

Cobrana is made by Verónica Ortega in Valtuille de Abajo, in D.O. Bierzo in Castilla y León. Originally from Cádiz and trained in leading wineries of Burgundy and Priorat, Ortega settled in Bierzo for its terroir and works mainly with old Mencía vineyards under organic farming. Bierzo sits in a sheltered basin where Galician and Castilian influences meet, and its mix of clay, slate and sandy soils gives Mencía its combination of red fruit, freshness and a stony, savoury edge. The old vines crop low yields of concentrated fruit. Vinification is traditional, with spontaneous fermentation by native yeasts, which preserves the character of the vineyard and the vintage rather than imposing a commercial yeast profile. Ageing takes place over thirteen months in separate containers by plot, retaining the detail of each parcel before blending. The wine is medium ruby with a bright rim. The nose is perfumed, with red berry, cherry, a floral note and a peppery, herbal lift over a mineral, earthy base. The palate is fresh and medium bodied, with fine tannin, lively acidity and a savoury finish. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees. It suits roast duck and game birds.