Yes Society is proud to be the exclusive outlet for Familia Nin Ortiz’s Selma de Nin Pla de Manlleu in the United States.
Ester Nin grew up in the Alt Penedès, first studying biology before pursuing enology with a focus on biodynamic and organic viticulture. After her studies, she spent several years at Mas Martinet, learning the intricacies of winemaking firsthand, before becoming the viticulturist at Clos i Terrasses. But it was Priorat—the rugged slopes, rocky soils, and ancient vines—that pulled her in completely. In 2004, she purchased a 1.5-hectare parcel in Mas d’En Caçador, the famed vineyard straddling the border between Porrera and Gratallops. With that, Familia Nin Ortiz was born.
The domaine follows the most rigorous biodynamic farming, working exclusively with organic materials and engaging in knowledge-sharing with neighboring growers. All weeding is done by hand, and the soils are plowed by mule. Harvesting is early to ensure a perfect balance between acidity and ripeness. In the cellar, grapes are carefully sorted, partially destemmed, and chilled briefly to prevent oxidation. Fermentations occur spontaneously in neutral vessels, with a winemaking approach that prioritizes elegance, restraint, and a balance of bright acidity and delicate aromatics.
Up a little dirt road beyond La Sínia de Selma, a clearing appears—terraced rows of chenin blanc, parellada montonega, roussanne, and marsanne. This secluded vineyard sits at 750 meters on clay-limestone beneath the abandoned village where Ester’s grandmother once lived. The dramatic diurnal shift here preserves acidity, creating a white wine that is both generous in fruit and electric with freshness.
The grapes are pressed whole-cluster and macerated for 24 hours before fermenting with native yeasts in neutral oak, where the wine matures for eight months. Selma is always aged in bottle for an additional two to three years before release. The resulting wine carries a captivating nose of tropical fruit, iron, and herbs, while the palate is vibrant and textured—lush tropical notes balanced by a whisper of amaro and a backbone of crystalline acidity.
