¡Hola! Picture a warm, late summer evening on a rooftop terrace, where the sun’s golden glow caresses the cityscape. As the day gracefully transitions into night, you find yourself on a unique culinary adventure. A vegan tapas soirée hosted by My Elephant Kitchen and Rueda Wines. This evening, we invite you to join us as we celebrate Spain’s rich culinary heritage. Let us introduce you to the captivating wines from DO Rueda. So, please sit back, relax, and prepare to be enchanted by Rueda Wines and My Elephant Kitchen!
Rueda: Where White Wines Reign Supreme
Our journey into the world of Rueda wines begins with an appreciation of the region. Nestled in the northwest of Spain, Rueda proudly stands as the country’s foremost white wine region. And it’s not difficult to understand why. The vineyards bask in the warm Spanish sun are thriving in a climate that combines hot summers with cool nights. This creates the perfect environment for white grape varieties.
In this sun-kissed terroir, Verdejo, the star of the show, reigns supreme. Its origins are shrouded in the mists of time. But here in Rueda, it finds its zenith, giving birth to wines renowned for their freshness, vibrancy, and unmistakable Spanish sunshine.
Shaya Verdejo Organic Ecológico 2021: A Symphony in a Bottle
As the sun begins its descent, we unveil our first treasure of the evening: Shaya Verdejo Organic Ecológico 2021. This wine stands as a testament to Rueda’s commitment to crafting wines of pure elegance.
Imagine a glass of Shaya, its hue a pale straw-yellow with hints of green. The glass is shimmering like the last rays of the late summer sun. The aromas are intense, a medley of white and exotic fruits like pineapple and green apple, intermingling with herbal and grassy notes that evoke the lush vineyards.
A sip takes you on a journey of flavors
The wine gracefully dances across your palate, its freshness and liveliness awakening your senses. It proudly highlights Rueda’s wine-making prowess. 20 to 30% of the wine is aged in barrels, resting on its lees for several months. Shaya Verdejo Organic Ecológico isn’t just vegan; it’s also proudly certified organic.
The Shaya winery, nestled in the heart of Rueda, embodies a collaborative effort between the Gil family and Enrique Busto. Here, ancient vines with low yields produce grapes of exceptional quality. Every step of the winemaking process is carried out with meticulous care, from hand-picking the grapes to the precise sorting upon arrival at the winery. The result? Verdejo wines that burst with fruitiness, freshness, and complexity.
Perfect Pairings: Rueda and Plant-Based Tapas
While we savor the magnificence of Shaya, let’s explore the magic of pairing Rueda wines with plant-based delights. Our Spanish-inspired soirée features a culinary journey crafted by My Elephant Kitchen. Expect a spread of finger foods, and two delectable tapas recipes harmonizing seamlessly with our Rueda stars.
The Vegan Paella: A Symphony of Flavors
Our gastronomic journey begins with a vegan paella. Paella is a dish that encapsulates the spirit of Spain. It serves as the ideal companion to the Shaya Verdejo Organic Ecológico.
Vegan Paella
Ingredients
- 6 tbsp Olive Oil
- 200 g Tofu cubed
- 1 Red Paprika sliced
- 75 g Green Peas thawed
- 1 Red Onion diced
- 4 cloves Garlic minced
- 300 g Arborio or Bomba Rice
- 1 L Vegetable Broth
- 2 tbsp Tomato Puree
- 2 tsp Paprika Powder
- 1 tsp Dry Thyme
- ½ tsp Sea Salt
- ½ tsp Black Pepper crushed
- ½ Lemon
Instructions
- Heat up a pan and add 2 tbsp oil. Add the tofu, paprika, and green peas with 1/2 tsp paprika powder and 1/4 tsp Sea Salt. Fry for 2-4 minutes on high heat.
- Heat up the remaining oil in another pan and fry the onions followed by the garlic.
- Stir in the rice and fry until it is golden. Mix in the broth, tomato puree, paprika powder, thyme, salt, pepper and lemon juice.
- Stir continuously and cook until all the water has evaporated.
- Mix everything together and serve with cherry tomatoes and lemon slices.
Nutrition
As we indulge in the steaming paella, the Shaya adds a magical note to the symphony of flavors. Its fresh and fruity characteristics elevate the dish, creating a delightful contrast with the savory richness of the paella. The wine’s pineapple and green apple notes interlace with herbal and grassy hints, transforming every bite into an exquisite experience.
This pairing underscores Rueda’s remarkable versatility. While it’s renowned for complementing seafood and chicken dishes, it proves equally adept at harmonizing with plant-based fare. It’s a testament to the adaptability and allure of Rueda wines, capable of enhancing a diverse array of culinary creations.
Unearthing the Rich Tapestry of Rueda: Where History Meets Modernity
As we sip our wines and relish the food, let’s take a brief moment to reflect on the history and heritage that have shaped this remarkable wine region. Rueda’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and a profound connection to the land. The concept of creating a dedicated Denomination of Origin (DO) for Rueda wines was initially broached in 1935. However, it wasn’t until 1980 that it was finally granted. By now Rueda had firmly established itself as a region known for crafting wines of distinction, quality, and a connection to its historical roots.
As we raise our glasses and savor the exquisite flavors of Rueda wines paired with plant-based delights, we not only celebrate the present but also pay homage to the indomitable spirit of Rueda’s winemakers throughout the centuries. Their dedication to the Verdejo grape and the enduring legacy of Rueda wines make every sip a journey through time and a testament to the profound connection between history, innovation, and the love of wine.
Yllera Verdejo Vendimia Nocturna 22: When Night Inspires Wine
As the sun sets further, our attention turns to Yllera Verdejo Vendimia Nocturna. This wine encapsulates the magic of the Spanish night. In your glass, it reveals itself as a straw-yellow elixir with hints of green. It is akin to moonlight reflecting on serene waters.
The aromas are a symphony of tropical fruits. Envision the scent of ripe mangoes and passionfruit, underscored by delicate notes of lemongrass and fennel seeds. With every swirl and sniff, it’s a journey into the heart of Rueda’s unique terroir.
In the mouth, it’s a revelation
Aromatics and freshness take center stage, guided by a refreshing acidity that leaves an indelible mark. These grapes are harvested at night to preserve their innate freshness. The juice undergoes cold maceration for eight to twelve hours, followed by controlled fermentation in stainless steel tanks.
The Yllera Group, producers of this exceptional wine, is strategically located in Rueda, Valladolid. It is in the heart of Spain’s finest wine regions. Led by the sixth generation and a dynamic team, the winery combines innovation with an unwavering commitment to quality. Their wines consistently shine in international competitions, a testament to their dedication.
Espinacas con Garbanzos: A Hearty Vegan Stew
Our culinary odyssey continues with a hearty vegan dish. Espinacas con Garbanzos is a stew that resonates with the warmth of Spanish hospitality. Paired with Yllera Verdejo Vendimia Nocturna, it’s a match made in culinary heaven.
Espinacas con Garbanzos
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp Olive Oil
- 4 cloves Garlic crushed
- 3 tbsp Tomato Puree
- 2 tbsp Paprika Powder
- 1 tsp Cumin Powder
- ½ tsp Sea Salt
- 200 g Spinach thawed
- 600 g Chickpeas cooked
- 50 ml Water
- 1 tbsp Cane Sugar
- 2-4 Cherry Tomatoes
Instructions
- Heat up a pan and add the olive oil then fry the garlic.
- Add the tomato puree, paprika powder, cumin powder, and salt to the pan. Fry for 2 minutes.
- Add the spinach to the pan and mix well.
- Mix in the chickpeas together with water and sugar. Mix well and toss until the water completely evaporates.
- Serve with fresh cherry tomatoes on top.
Nutrition
The Yllera wine accentuates its tropical fruit notes, transforming each spoonful of the stew into a revelation of flavors. The mango and passionfruit aromas meld seamlessly with the dish’s earthy and robust character. They truly create a symphony of tastes that dances on the palate.
This pairing reaffirms the notion that Rueda wines possess a unique ability to elevate any culinary experience. Whether it’s a seafood extravaganza or a comforting vegan stew, Rueda wines, with their refreshing acidity and aromatic richness, deserve a place at the table.
As we relish these perfect pairings under the setting sun, it becomes evident that Rueda wines not only complement the dishes but also enhance them. They add layers of complexity and a touch of Spanish magic to every bite.
Rueda: A Wine Worth Exploring
As the evening draws to a close, we truly comprehend what makes Rueda wines so exceptional. Here is why you should include them in your wine journey:
- Leading White Wine Region: Rueda stands as Spain’s premier white wine region, a testament to its dedication to crafting exceptional whites.
- Versatile Pairings: These wines are incredibly versatile, making them the ideal companions for a wide range of dishes, from seafood to plant-based creations.
- A Taste of Summer: Rueda wines capture the essence of summer, offering a refreshing and invigorating experience with every sip.
- Uncomplicated Enjoyment: Rueda is celebrated as an “easy-drinking wine,” perfect for casual gatherings and special occasions alike.
- Fruity and Fresh: Renowned for their fruity and fresh characteristics, Rueda wines are a delightful sensory experience.
- Verdejo at Its Best: Verdejo, the main grape variety of Rueda, is the heart and soul of these exceptional wines.
Savor the magic of this Spanish-inspired evening, enveloped by the enchanting flavors of Rueda wines and plant-based culinary delights. We invite you to embark on your own journey into the world of Rueda. Whether it’s a rooftop gathering, a cozy dinner for two, or a solitary moment of reflection, Rueda wines are the perfect companions for life’s most memorable moments. Raise your glass, take a sip, and savor the magic of Rueda. ¡Salud!
