Verdejo wine is a white wine. It gets its name from the grape variety used to make it: Verdejo grapes. The final product, according to the Regulatory Council of the Denominations of Origin, must not have less than 85% of grapes.
Verdejo grapes are grown in different regions of Spain. Castilla y León is recognized as the largest producer of this variety. This product is obtained by crossing the Traminer grape with the white Castilian grape.
Characteristics of Verdejo Wine
Verdejo wines have peculiar characteristics that generate great satisfaction to those who consume them. It is an exquisite wine due to its greenish yellow color and medium alcohol level. This without leaving aside its slightly acidic and fruity flavor. This variety is becoming increasingly popular.
Versatility
Verdejo wine is highly appreciated among consumers due to its smoothness and freshness. It is quite versatile and has a wide range of pairing options. It is perfect as an aperitif or to accompany delicious dishes of different kinds.
Color
This variety is characterized by an attractive pale yellow to greenish straw color. This is due to the Verdejo grape variety, which acquires a yellowish hue as it ripens. Due to the transparency of its flesh, the final color of the wine is slightly pale.
Average alcohol level
The alcoholic level of Verdejo wine is usually medium. It has a medium degree of acidity and fruity flavor with soft touches and slightly bitter nuances. Its characteristic flavor is the result of the soil where the vine grows and the continental climate.
Grape harvesting
Another reason for its special flavor is the timing of the harvest. The Verdejo grapes are harvested at night to maintain an optimum temperature of 10° to 15° until they reach the winery. Maceration and fermentation are also done cold to maintain the most appropriate freshness.
Aroma
In terms of aroma, this variety of wine stands out for its fruity and intense aromas. In addition, it has herbaceous nuances with bitter tones so intense that make it unmistakable. The blend of white flower aromas gives it elegance. In addition, they make it easy to recognize in wine tastings.
Fermentation and variety
Currently, two different varieties of wine can be produced: one where the wine is fermented and aged in barrels, and the other where it is not.
The latter is characterized by herbal, fruity and citrus aromas, much fresher. While the former tends to have creamy textures and a certain touch of honey and fruit. Both varieties are exquisite to the palate. They have great versatility when it comes to pairing.
What makes us like it so much?
Verdejo wine has an exceptional versatility that makes it the ideal companion for different dishes. Thanks to its characteristic slightly acidic flavor with bitter undertones, it can neutralize the palate. This allows the next mouthful to burst into an explosion of flavor that enchants the sense of taste.
It is a wine that should be served chilled, preferably between 8° to 10°. Therefore, it is ideal to open the mouth or to accompany light dishes and appetizers. It is also a good choice for pairing with seafood, fish, salads or rice dishes.
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