2024 La Ardilla Dorada, Orange Wine, Bodegas Javier Ruiz

2024 La Ardilla Dorada, Orange Wine, Bodegas Javier Ruiz, Rueda, Spain: 75cl: 13.0% Vol. 

Winemaking: The harvest is carried out entirely by hand selecting Palomino and Sauvignon from old vines in the estate owned location at Villaneuva de Duero. The grapes are collected in small crates ensuring integrity and preventing premature breakage and oxidation. At the winery the grapes are selected cluster by cluster, discarding any unsuitable fruit to preserve quality standards. Gentle de-stemming follows preserving the integrity of the skins. Fermentation on the skins takes place which is the traditional method for Orange wines. Maceration extends over several weeks with minimal intervention aiming for delicate extraction of colour and aromas and fine tannins. After fermentation the wine is separated from the solids but continues ageing on the lees. The process involves low levels of sulfites and avoids unnecessary treatments to prioritise artisanal production.

The result is an Orange wine where the Palomino provides the structure, salinity and depth whilst the Sauvignon Blanc brings the necessary freshness.

Tasting notes:  attractive deep amber colour with golden and orange reflections. Complex and expressive nose with aromas of orange peel, dried apricot and ripe apple but with herbal notes, dried flowers, black tea.

Food pairing: Ideal with Asian cuisine, aged cheeses, spicy dishes, oily fish, rice and white meats. Serving temperature at 10-12 degrees.