2022 Vetus `Flor de Vetus` Rueda

Rueda is one of Spain’s best-kept secrets.  Its signature grape, Verdejo, is native to the region of Rueda in Castilla y Leon, in north west Spain.  Winemaking in Rueda has been documented as early as the 10th century and it was the first D.O. (Designation of Origin) to be approved in Castilla y León, in 1980. Rueda sits at half a mile above sea level, where the climate is extreme with cold winters, late springs and blistering summers.  Verdejo thrives under these conditions, concentrating flavour.  Roots are forced to dig deep through the sandy, stony soil for water and nutrients, giving the wines a slight minerality. Huge temperature swings between day and night help maintain the balance between sugar and acidity in the Verdejo grape.

The ‘Flor de Vetus’ Rueda is 100% Verdejo and is sourced from an 80-year-old vineyard that lies at 820 metres above sea level in the cool area of Segovia, giving a crisp and fresh style of white wine.  It is a vibrant yellow in colour.  On the nose are intense aromas of tropical, white stone and citrus fruits. The fruit characters carry through to the palate, balanced by refreshing acidity and a long finish.