Verónica Ortega Kinki 2023

Verónica Ortega Kinki is a barrel-aged red from D.O. Bierzo made by winemaker Verónica Ortega, who trained at Clos Erasmus, Álvaro Palacios, Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Comte Armand and Domaine Combier before settling in Valtuille de Abajo. Kinki is a co-fermented field blend of the red Mencía with the white varieties Godello, Doña Blanca and Palomino, made in the old Bierzo manner where red and white grapes grow and ferment together. That co-fermentation lifts the aromatics and lightens the body, which is why the wine sits at just 11.5 percent alcohol with a floral, delicate profile. The Bierzo vineyards, on slate and clay soils with a cool Atlantic-influenced climate, ripen the grapes gently and hold acidity and freshness. The wine sees a period in barrel for texture rather than oak flavour. The colour is pale and bright. The nose is markedly floral, with fresh red fruit, white flowers, citrus peel and a stony, herbal note. The palate is light and fresh, with soft tannin, vivid acidity and an aromatic finish. Serve at 13 to 15 degrees, lightly cool. It suits roast poultry, white fish and fresh cheeses.