2017 Bodegas Verum (BV), Malvasia (bodegasverum.com)
About the Region: One hundred km southeast of Madrid, Spain, BV sits at 660 metres above sea level on the Castilla–La Mancha (C-LM) Plateau. High, flat and breezy, it features the largest area under vine, combined with the highest yield, of all the world’s wine regions.
About Terroir: C-LM’s Continental climate (hot summers/little rainfall), enables vigorous vine growth. Its calcareous stony soils providing effective drainage, arid conditions offering vine stress, prevailing winds contributing cooling and aeration.
About the Estate: Founded in 1788 by the López-Montero family, BV has traditionally grown the Airén grape for making higher-alcohol spirits (Orujo, brandy). In 2004, under direction of precocious son Elías, the family diversified into small-scale wine production.
About the Winemaker: After earning a Masters of Viticulture in Rioja, Elías interned at Aalto (Ribero del Duero, Spain) then at Bergkelder (Stellenbosch, S. Africa). Acknowledging C-LM’s bulk-wine reputation—and recognizing its opportunities—the then-24-year-old inquisitive Spaniard embarked on improving reality; through strategic planting, better vineyard management and selective yield. Sectioning off the bodega, Elías planted varietals unfamiliar to C-LM (Graciano, Malvasia, Mazuelo, Tinto Velasco), with best production reserved for markets abroad. In 2018 (February), Decanter Magazine recognized Elías López-Montero’s efforts, naming him one of its “Ten next-generation Spanish winemakers to know.”
About the Grape: Pronounced “Mal-VA-sia,” it can be either red or white. Partial to warmer climes, vine historians believe it to have originated on the Greek Island of Crete during the Middle Ages. Proliferated throughout the Mediterranean by Venetian traders; Malvasia is used to make Still, Sparkling (Champagnino/Italy), and Dessert (Madiera/Portugal) style wines.
About the Wine: Made from white Malvasia, the lovely golden appearance impresses. Viscous on the swirl, aromas of flowers and orchard fruits impress. On the palate, the nicely weighted tongue of ripe peaches and apricots leads into a crisp, mineral-based finish.
About Pairing: Gouda-stuffed chicken, seafood paella/linguine, fruit & cheese salad.
About Closure: Cork
About Sustainability: Certified Organic (E.U.). Suitable for Vegetarian and Vegan diets.
About Alcohol Level: 13.5% (abv)
About Availability: Check liquorconnect.com (call the listed store too) confirming availability.
CSPC #787716
