Cantalapiedra Viticultores Lirondo Verdejo 2022 – Castilla Y León

I discovered this producer through an article on where to enjoy wine in Madrid. The article mentioned the 2020 Cantalapiedra La Otea. However, when I contacted my sources, the only wine available from this producer was the Lironda. It took nearly three weeks to arrive, but I was extremely pleased with both the wine and its price.

The Cantalapiedras have a lineage spanning several generations of winegrowers in the municipality of La Seca, the heart of the Rueda appellation. Although records of the Cantalapiedras’ grape-growing activities date back to the 19th century, the birth of their current estate can be directly traced to 1949. As a farmer, Manuel Cantalapiedra strives to surpass organic practices, incorporating many biodynamic methods into the viticulture. In the cellar, he employs wild yeasts for fermentation, uses minimal sulfur, and refrains from making any other additions, setting him apart from the predominantly conventional practices of most wineries in Rueda.

The grapes come from organically farmed vines in the Las Escuclillas vineyard. These vines are approximately 30 years old and are planted in pebbly, sandy, and clay soils over limestone bedrock. The vineyard employs bush training and sits at an elevation of about 760 meters above sea level.

Cantalapiedra follows biodynamic practices in the vineyard. The grapes are harvested by hand, destemmed, and gently pressed in a pneumatic press. The wine undergoes approximately 6 hours of skin contact, imparting a touch of spice and tannin on the palate. It is then racked into stainless steel tanks to ferment and rests on its lees for 6 months.

This 100% Verdejo wine exhibits a delightful combination of honeysuckle and stone fruit flavors complemented by refreshing acidity. It truly represents the essence of the varietal. Abundant citrus fruit notes are enhanced by 8 months of lees aging, which adds extra texture and body. Hints of marzipan and candied pineapple contribute to a dry, satisfying finish.  $23.

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