Wines from region northwest of Madrid maximize the flavours of verdejo, a grape with 1,000 years of history
I had a chance to visit the region this past September and after tasting more than 70 wines, I can see what the buzz is about. While the region’s 75 wineries produce both red and white wines, 98 per cent of production is white wines, with one grape in particular leading the pack – verdejo. With a history in the region dating back 1,000 years, verdejo has been used in winemaking for centuries but its popularity was reborn in the 1970s.
When noted Rioja winery Marques de Riscal came to Rueda, it pursued a lighter, fresh wine style using verdejo. That is the Rueda of today. The whites must include at least 50 per cent verdejo or sauvignon blanc. Other white grapes – viura, viognier, palomino fino and chardonnay – can also play a lesser role in a blend. But most of the wines are 100 per cent verdejo.Article content
Located on the high plateau of central Spain, with altitudes from 700 to 870 metres, the vineyards are planted on sand, river rocks or loamy clay. Each soil type gives a different quality to the wines, according to the winemakers I met. Made from 100 per cent verdejo from its vineyards in Serrada and Le Seca, the wine offers flavours of baked lemon, flint, popcorn, almond and apricot. It’s light-bodied and slightly off-dry, with moderate acidity and a refreshing finish.About $16. Look for it at 4th Street Liquor, Co-op Wines Spirits Beer, Crowfoot Wine and Spirits, Ed’s Liquor, Highlander Wine and Spirits, Market Wines and Willow Park Wines & Spirits.Article contentNow.
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