Mujer Caballo Naranja

Micro-plots are small areas within a vineyard or agricultural land, which are cultivated and managed separately. These plots often have unique characteristics in terms of soil, sun exposure, drainage or other conditions that can influence the growth and quality of the grapes. In addition, because these vineyards are mapped out, it allows growers to carry out more precise and detailed management and thus achieve a greater expression of the terroir. For Pilar Esteve, José Domenech and Joan Llobell, putting their faith in micro-plots has gone well. Located in the municipality of Fontanars dels Alforins, in Valencia, they set up their own small project called Fil.Loxera y Cia. A winery that they started in Pilar and José's own home and as a result they make small amounts with their own identity.

One of their most unusual wines is this Mujer Caballo Naranja, an orange wine that comes from vines planted in 1972 on the slopes of the Sierra de l'Ombria on stony and sandy loam soil. Muscat and Valencian variety vineyards cultivated with environmentally friendly methods and minimal intervention. When the grape reaches optimum ripeness, they are harvested by hand in 18 kg boxes. Then, in the winery, the best grapes are destemmed, crushed and macerated for 5 days. Fermentation at uncontrolled temperatures lasts 15 days and, after malolactic fermentation, the wine is aged for 8 months in steel tanks and French oak barrels. Finally, the wine is bottled without clarifying or filtering or stabilising.

Made from native white varieties that are grown and vinified the old-fashioned way, Mujer Caballo Naranja is a most original orange wine. A little gem that reflects the spirit of this great little wine adventure.