Shaya Verdejo Rueda 2023 750ml

Shaya emerges from old-vine Verdejo plantings in the heart of Rueda, where Jorge Ordóñez's project seeks to showcase the variety's potential for creating wines of real substance and complexity. The 2023 vintage captures these venerable vines at their most expressive, producing a Verdejo that challenges preconceptions about Spanish white wine.

The wine gleams with a bright straw-yellow color touched by green highlights. On the nose, it offers classic Verdejo character elevated by old-vine concentration—intense aromas of fresh herbs, white flowers, and citrus zest mingle with riper notes of white peach and tropical fruits. What sets Shaya apart is the depth and complexity that comes from old vines: mineral notes of wet stones and chalk, subtle hints of fennel and anise, and a distinctive note of bitter almonds that adds intrigue.

The palate reveals the difference that old vines make. While maintaining Verdejo's characteristic freshness, there's an extra dimension of concentration and complexity. The texture is rich and almost creamy, coating the mouth with flavors of citrus, stone fruits, and herbs. Yet vibrant acidity keeps everything lifted and energetic, creating a dynamic tension that makes each sip compelling. Mid-palate, those mineral notes intensify, joined by the variety's signature bitter almond finish that adds authenticity and complexity.

Shaya represents a more serious take on Verdejo, showing what the variety can achieve when yields are limited and winemaking is ambitious. The old vines provide concentration and depth, while careful handling preserves the variety's essential freshness. The finish is long and complex, with citrus, herbs, and mineral notes that linger impressively. This is Verdejo for the dinner table rather than just the aperitif hour, with enough structure and complexity to pair with substantial dishes. A compelling argument for taking Spanish white wine seriously, offering remarkable quality at a fair price.