In the mountains of El Bierzo (Castilla y León), Otero appears to be an ordinary village. Yet, amidst paths lined with gorse — that thorny shrub so prevalent in Galicia, known locally as toxo — vineyards have been cultivated for decades, enduring the mountainous climate.
It is here that the young winemaker Olga Verde develops Toxo, a project born from community collaboration and a commitment to preserving the region's viticultural heritage. Her organic vineyards are over 80 years old and occupy a mere 0.9 hectares on the north-facing slopes of Otero and Corullón, a place made famous by the renowned Ricardo and Álvaro Palacios among Spanish wine enthusiasts.
The La Madroñal plot, featuring old vines of mencía and merenzao, at an altitude of 563 metres with a southeast orientation, is the heart of this endeavour. The vinification process involves 30% whole clusters with the remainder destemmed, fermenting naturally and unhurriedly. Afterwards, the wine matures for 9 months in French oak barrels, gaining complexity while retaining its original freshness.
Toxo Villa de San Clemente is the culmination of decades of history, respect for the land, and the dedication of those who understand that good things take time. Each bottle embodies the essence of a mountain vineyard in El Bierzo, where tradition and nature meet in perfect harmony.