Verdejo

Verdejo is a variety of white wine grape that has long been grown in the Rueda region of Spain. The grape originated in North Africa, and was introduced to Rueda in about the 11th Century, possibly by Mozarabs (Christians who lived in Moorish Spain). The Verdejo was generally used to make a strongly oxidized, Sherry-like wine. In the 1970s, the winemaking company, Marqués de Riscal, began to develop a fresher, more aromatic wine from the grape. This initiative was successful, and sparked a revival in Verdejo's fortunes.

Characteristics

Verdejo wines are aromatic, often soft, and full-bodied. They display an herbaceous and nutty character, with hints of lime, almond, and green apple. The wines are often high in glycerol, which gives them a pleasant, slightly oily texture.

Viticulture

Verdejo vines have a long vegetative cycle and are highly resistant to drought. In the hot climate of Rueda, the grapes are generally harvested at night. This avoids excessive heat, which can lead to overripe flavors.

Wine regions

While Verdejo is grown in several regions of Spain, it is most widely planted in the Rueda region. Here, the grape is often blended with Sauvignon blanc and Viura to produce a more aromatic wine. In recent years, there has been a trend towards producing 100% Verdejo wines.

Food pairing

Verdejo wines are versatile when it comes to food pairing. They can be enjoyed on their own, but also pair well with a variety of foods including tapas, seafood, and paella. They are particularly good with dishes that include herbs and spices, as these can bring out the wine's aromatic qualities.

See also

• List of grape varieties
• Spanish wines