Ismael Gozalo is most famous as founder and winemaker at Ossian in Rueda, but since 1998 he has made his own unique wines from his family’s vineyards in the hamlet of Nieva. The vines are from 130 to 280 years old on original rootstock. Situated 800-900 metres above sea level, on primarily sandy soil which has never seen chemical treatment. Each site has a cru designated to it for quality purposes and since 2014 Ismael has also been researching the various yeast strains that grow naturally in each location, to greater understand the added complexity this brings each Cru. In the cellar, Ismael defies all rules and logic . At very gentle press, leaving 25% of juice in the grape and achieving around 18hl/h. The wines are fermented and aged in glass demijohns, steel, oak and amphora. Racked between these different vessels as and when he deems appropriate. Extended lees contact is the one common theme. Ismael’s wines are released under two labels, Vinos Ismael Gozalo and Microbio wines.