Bodegas Naia 2019 – A Classic Verdejo Wine from Rueda’s Finest Vineyards
The 2019 Bodegas Naia embodies the authenticity and elegance of the Verdejo grape, crafted from some of the oldest vines in the renowned La Seca area. Bodegas Naia has a strong focus on creating Verdejo wines with pure varietal expression, offering wine enthusiasts a well-balanced, complex wine that captures the essence of the region.
Distinctive Character and Origins
Bodegas Naia is rooted in La Seca, a village that’s celebrated as the Grand Cru of D.O. Rueda. Since 2002, Bodegas Naia has cultivated the Verdejo variety with care, producing wines from vines aged between 15 and 130 years. The vineyards span 23.5 hectares at an altitude of 750-800 meters, where calcareous clay soils covered with sandy clay and stones contribute to the wine’s unique character. This high-altitude location, paired with the Mediterranean continental climate, produces grapes with concentrated flavors and bright acidity.
Winemaking Process: Precision and Tradition
Crafted with meticulous care, 70% of Naia 2019 ferments in stainless steel tanks, while 30% ages in 10,000-liter French oak vats and smaller 500-600 liter barrels. This dual approach enhances both structure and depth. The wine rests on its lees for four months, which enhances its creamy texture and gives it a fuller body. This process helps the wine achieve a fine balance between freshness and richness, allowing the Verdejo’s natural flavors to shine through.
Tasting Notes: Vibrant and Complex
Bodegas Naia 2019 pours a straw-yellow color with greenish highlights, immediately appealing with its vibrant appearance. On the nose, it reveals layers of citric aromas, stone fruits like peach and apricot, and hints of fennel, evolving in the glass to offer an aromatic journey. This wine is dense yet unctuous on the palate, with a refreshing balance of fruit and acidity. The finish is long and elegant, with lingering notes of fruit and subtle herbal undertones.
Perfect Food Pairings
This Verdejo pairs seamlessly with seafood dishes such as roasted sea bass or Gilthead bream, enhancing their natural flavors. It’s equally delightful with a creamy mushroom risotto, where its acidity cuts through the richness of the dish.
The 2019 Vintage: Balanced and Refined
The 2019 harvest benefited from a mild summer, allowing for slow ripening and producing a wine that’s both complex and balanced. The careful attention given in the vineyard and the winery reflects in each bottle of Naia 2019, making it a classic choice for those who appreciate the timeless appeal of Verdejo wines.