Wine of the week: Affordable Luxury

"Is this a Montrachet?"
My better half replied instantly after taking sip of the large glas pictured above.
She was referring to the deliciously tasty white wines from the Montrachet appellation in Burgundy, France. One of the best wines in the world, and ticking in at least three times the price of this bottle. 
Why she has such a nose for Montrachet is a whole different story. But realising that similar wines can be found at affordable prices, is what made this story.

This is a true little gem from Spain and the vineyards of José Pariente. The family run winery is set north west of Madrid, somewhat 40 km south of the city named Valladolid. Just at the yellow pin above.

Here three generations of winemakers have managed to bring forward a beautiful selection of wines. Amongst them, this white made from 100% Verdejo grapes, a grape native and predominant to the Rueda appellation, where the vineyard is situated.

It's from 50 year old bush vines, witch gives the grapes a cool personality. It's barrel fermented and stored for 5 months in 225 liter French oak barrels before bottling.

The complexity coming from the soil and the harsh climate they grow in, combined with the thick skin of the grape, are the secrets behind this wine. 

Tasting notes

JOSÉ PARIENTE VERDEJO FERMENTADO EN BARRICA 2016 - 238 KR

Brilliant golden yellow color. 
Rich and intense nose. Smell of ripe yellow fruits, lemons, wet stones, honey melon and toast with butter. The intensity continues in the mouth, with a complex palette consisting of ripe lemons, lemon zest and some grapefruit and honey as well. Big and beautiful mouth feel with long lasting aftertaste. 

Food
First of al: this is a wine excellent for drinking alone. It's sort of a light meal in itself. Now that being said, it's also an excellent wine with food.
Try this with crab meat on toasted bread with mayo and pickles. Or toss up a salad with Parmesan crusted chicken, to put a little bit of fat to the dish and making the wine pairing more interesting. 

Conclusion
It's affordable luxury, a great 'drink alone wine' and it's a cool cat to pair with light summer dishes. A high quality wine, that comes highly recommended from us.