Verónica Ortega Quite 2023

Verónica Ortega settled in Valtuille de Abajo in the Bierzo after training in Burgundy and Priorat, drawn by the region's terroir. Quite is her organic, fruit forward Mencía, sourced mainly from old vineyards farmed to ecological principles. Bierzo sits in a sheltered basin in the west of Castilla y León, where the slate and clay soils and a transitional Atlantic to Mediterranean climate give Mencía its combination of perfume, acidity and gentle grip. The old vines, deep rooted and naturally low yielding, concentrate aroma in a small crop. Winemaking is deliberately hands off, with spontaneous fermentation on native yeasts to preserve site character, followed by eight months in French oak barrels that add structure without masking the fruit. The colour is bright and youthful. The nose is vivid and floral, full of ripe red cherry, raspberry and plum, with red currant and a subtle earthy, peppery note. The palate is fresh and supple, the tannin fine, the acidity keeping it lively through a clean finish. Serve at 14 to 16 degrees, lightly chilled if you prefer. It is well suited to roast poultry, duck and lighter game.