Tierra Fundida Cercado del Pino Blanco 2022

Grape: Listan Blanco, Albillo Criollo, Verdello
Vintage: 2022
Type: White

Sourced from the 1.5-hectare Finca Cercado del Pino vineyard perched at 620 meters elevation in the volcanic soils of Tenerife, this striking white blend captures the raw, Atlantic-influenced energy of the Canary Islands. The three indigenous varieties are vinified entirely separately according to their unique properties: the Listán Blanco is direct-pressed in full clusters into concrete vats, the Albillo Criollo undergoes manual destemming and foot-stomping to ferment on its skins in clay amphorae, and the Verdello is fermented in open-top wooden vats. After fermentation, the component wines are blended to rest for six months in a mix of concrete, amphorae, and old oak. The result is a brilliantly layered, complex multi-vessel snapshot of high-altitude volcanic terroir.

In the glass, it shows a pale, luminous straw hue with slight amber reflections. The nose is highly intricate and distinctive, flashing aromas of charred lemon peel, green apple skin, wild seaside herbs, and a smoky, volcanic note reminiscent of struck flint. On the palate, a "crystalline" core of razor-sharp, saline acidity drives straight through a broad, texturally rich mid-palate carved out by the partial skin contact. The contrast between the waxy weight of the fruit and the sharp mountain freshness creates a beautifully fluid and athletic mouthfeel. It finishes completely bone-dry and persistent, leaving a lingering, mouthwatering trail of bitter citrus oil, ocean air, and crushed volcanic rock.