Cantalapiedra Viticultores "Majuelo del Chiveritero" Verdejo Rueda

The Cantalapiedras descend from several generations of winegrowers working in the municipality of La Seca, the heart of the Rueda appellation. Although there are records of the Cantalapiedras’ grape-growing dating to the 19th century, the birth of the current estate can be traced directly to the year 1949, when patriarch Heliodoro planted his first vineyard plot, or majuelo, at the tender age of 15. Since 2014, Manuel (Heliodoro’s grandson) has been the driving force behind Cantalapiedra Viticultores, taking charge of first the winemaking and now the farming of their vines. As a farmer, Manuel strives to go beyond organics, and incorporates many biodynamic practices into their viticulture. In the cellar, he utilizes wild yeasts for fermentation, minimal amounts of sulfur, and no other additions, all of which distinguish him from the predominantly conventional practices of most wineries in Rueda.

2018 was a warm year, but with a very rainy spring that caused considerable losses to mildew. However, Manuel feels that the rains made the vintage fresher, and that it's ready to drink right now.

2020 wet and warm, with rains in the spring and a warm summer. Yields were somewhat reduced due to struggles with mildew, but quality was high.