Hermanos del Villar 2023 'Oro de Castilla' Verdejo, Rueda DO

Made in a classic style, Oro de Castilla showcases the bright, fresh and mineral flavors of the Verdejo grape. Renowned wine critic Josh Raynolds considers this wine “a textbook Verdejo" while the Spanish Wine Academy presents it as a “best example” Verdejo within the Rueda region section of its Spanish Wine Educator (SWE) certification program.

Winemaking Notes: Harvest takes place during the cool night hours to maximize the aromatic expression of the Verdejo grape. At the winery, the juice is kept at a cold temperature to avoid oxidation. The grapes undergo gentle pneumatic pressing, and the resulting must naturally settles at a low temperature. A slow fermentation is employed utilizing indigenous yeast. The wine does not go through malolactic fermentation in order to retain the wine's fresh acidity. The wine ages in stainless steel tanks for 4 months with daily stirring of the lees to enhance the texture and mouthfeel. The wine is filtered and bottled.

Tasting Notes: The fresh and citrus aroma and flavor profile is quite similar to Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire; Oro de Castilla has wonderful minerality that recalls the best examples of Sancerre. It is dry and racy on the palate, offering lively citrus fruit and fresh fig flavors and a subtle touch of tarragon. Try pairing this wine with salmon, mahi mahi or flounder. Salads with grilled chicken, asparagus or toasted almonds will also pair well.