"A weed never dies" is a saying that, at first glance, speaks of unwanted persistence. Yet in nature, and especially in Bierzo (Castilla y León), this ability to survive becomes a virtue: resilience, strength, and the capacity to thrive even in the most challenging terrains. This very philosophy guides Olga Verde Viéitez, an oenologist and viticulturist, who has devoted her personal project to reviving the essence of old vineyards and the terroir of the region.
One of her most notable wines bears the name Toxo, inspired by that plant which, despite being considered a "weed," is an example of character and resilience. Toxo covers cliffs and paths with branches full of thorns and flowers known as "chorimas," which burst into greens and yellows. Its pods release seeds with vigour, and after a fire, it is the first to regenerate. This explosiveness and resilience are what Olga seeks to convey in every bottle of Toxo: a wine that captures the strength of the terroir and the authenticity of the vineyard.
The Olga Verde project focuses on the restoration of old vineyards on the northern slopes of Otero de Toral, a small mountain village near the Villa de Corullón (in Bierzo). There, seven small north-facing plots, situated between 540 and 620 metres in altitude, with vines over 80 years old, contribute the complexity and character Olga seeks. The slate and clay soils, along with the meticulous selection of grapes and traditional winemaking techniques, allow the identity of each plot to be expressed.
The result of this work is Toxo Villa de Otero, an intense and balanced wine, the product of artisanal vinification of mencía and a very small proportion of doña blanca and palomino, combining 30% whole clusters with 70% destemmed grapes, and aged for 11 months in French oak barrels.
Toxo Villa de Otero is a tribute to the strength of the land, the patience of traditional viticulture, and the vision of Olga Verde, who transforms the proverbial "weed" into a symbol of authenticity and character.