La Misión 2022
Pre-phylloxera Verdejo • Bodegas Menade
"The legacy of time: a cult white wine born from vineyards over 140 years old, where ancestral wisdom blends with masterful aging in amphorae and foudres."
Liquid Heritage of Castilla
La Misión is not just a wine; it's a viticultural archeology project led by the Sanz siblings. This age-worthy Verdejo is born from pre-phylloxera vines that have inhabited sandy soils since the mid-19th century. Its production is a return to its origins: it ferments with wild yeasts and ages in a combination of clay amphorae, French oak barrels, and large foudres. The result is a majestic, powerful, and profound white wine that redefines the limits of the Verdejo grape.
1. Identity Profile
- Winery: Bodegas Menade.
- Origin: Castilla y León, Spain (La Misión Estate).
- Varietal: 100% Verdejo from ancestral vines (+140 years).
- Aging: Clay amphorae, oak barrels, and foudres.
- Soil: Sandy with pebbles (phylloxera resistant).
- Volume: 750 ml.
2. Sommelier's Notes
Appearance: Intense golden yellow color, with dense, brilliant legs that anticipate its unctuousness.
Nose: Extraordinary complexity. Notes of ripe white fruit, quince, and withered flowers are perceived, followed by hints of dried fruits, honey, and a very elegant chalky mineral background.
Palate: Powerful and structured. It possesses a noble acidity that balances its ripeness. The finish is long, slightly smoky, and with a fascinating saline persistence.
3. Character Analysis
AGING POTENTIAL [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
TERTIARY COMPLEXITY [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
MOUTHFEEL [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
RARITY (OWN ROOTSTOCK) [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
4. Pairing and Serving
Structured Dishes: Baked turbot, cod pil-pil, or grilled fatty fish.
White Meats: Truffled capon, glazed veal sweetbreads, or creamy mountain rice dishes.
Serving: It is recommended to enjoy at 12°C. Due to its complexity, prior decanting is ideal to allow its aromatic layers to fully open.
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why are clay amphorae used?
Amphorae allow for very gentle oxygenation without interfering with the wine's primary aromas, achieving an earthy and authentic texture that new wood sometimes hides.
Is this wine organic?
Bodegas Menade is a pioneer in ecological and natural viticulture. La Misión follows this philosophy, using indigenous yeasts and minimal intervention in the winery.