Description

ABOUT THE PRODUCER:
The philosophy behind Bodegas Viñátigo is to revive and promote the extensive varietal heritage of the Canary Islands. The journey started in the 1990s, at a century-old plot in the village of La Guancha, in the north of Tenerife, where the traditional varieties of Listán Blanco and Listán Negro were vinified in the old family winery. With an uncompromising eye on quality, this dynamic winemaking project has subsequently expanded to produce thrilling, modern wines from varieties such as Gual, Marmajuelo and Vijariego. Bodegas Viñátigo’s ethos is respectful of the environment, both in the vineyard where sustainable winegrowing practices are applied; and in the construction of its state-of-the-art winery which was built in 1997 from local materials and designed to minimise energy consumption.

ABOUT THE VINEYARD:
Vijariego Blanco is a variety that offers great adaptability in the vineyard, growing from sea level up to 1,000 metres. The absence of phylloxera in the Canary Islands has preserved many other unique varieties too, creating an unparalleled viticultural heritage. As a result, all of the vines are ungrafted, allowing for a complete interaction between the plant and soil. The combination of volcanic soils, the cooling Alisios trade winds and the distinctive microclimates found on the island contributes to the extraordinary personalities of the wines. The vineyard is managed sustainably without the use of herbicides or synthetic products. The vineyards are manually cultivated, from the beginning of August to mid-November; the higher the plot, the later the harvest.

THE WINEMAKING PROCESS:
The grapes were cooled to 5°C before vinification. Sulphur was not added because at these temperatures oxidation takes place more slowly, which permits the winemakers to work without the use of additives, while preserving the high quality. Fermentation took place with the indigenous yeasts in Allier oak barriques of 225 and 350 litres of varying toast levels. The wine was aged in oak barrels, on its fine lees with regular bâtonnage for four to six months.

OUR TASTING NOTE:
Fragrant aromas of pear and vanilla over smoky notes delightfully introduce this wine. An array of tropical fruits is complemented by citrus, spice and floral notes, while the striking acidity of this variety is beautifully balanced by creaminess from the barrel ageing.

GRAPE VARIETY:
Vijariego Blanco 100%.