Yllera Chardonnay 2024

Yllera grows this Chardonnay in D.O. Rueda, on the high plateau of Castilla y León where the continental climate and altitude give warm days and sharply cooler nights. That wide diurnal swing is central to the style, slowing sugar accumulation and holding on to acidity and aromatic freshness. The estate harvests at night, a common practice in Rueda's warm summers, bringing the grapes in cool so their aromas and natural properties are preserved and oxidation is kept in check before pressing. Fermentation is carried out cool and without oak, so the wine stays fresh, primary and unmasked, with Chardonnay showing its leaner, more mineral side rather than a rich, buttery one. The wine is pale yellow with green tints. The nose is clean and citrus-forward, with green apple, lemon and pear over a light floral note. The palate is dry and crisp, medium-bodied, with brisk acidity and a clean finish. This is an everyday white built for freshness rather than ageing. Serve well chilled at 8 to 10 degrees.