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Endcostas de Lima ‘Schist’ Vinho Verde 2021
Origin: Ponte de Lima, Portugal
Retail: $10.95 | Sale: $9.86
This springtime staff favorite is back this year highlighting the freshness of vinho verde. Situated on the south side of the Lima river the schist based soils give this wine a mineral crispness that is its namesake. Warm citrus flower aromatics are welcome and flavors of mango, green apple and subtle creaminess add depth without feeling too full bodied. This female-run winery continually creates wines that are demonstrative of the rocky terroir and known for their organoleptic qualities. Only 500 cases of Schist were produced making it a highlight to drink while it lasts.
Vinho verde was the first Portuguese wine exported through Europe and literally translates to “green wine” although the area is no newcomer to wine making. Wine grapes were first planted by the Romans and wine making is synonymous with Portuguese culture. A region, not a grape, Vinho Verde was officially recognized in 1908 as an DOC. While most of the vinho verde exported to the US is white wine, there are notable red vinho verdes to be had, although much more readily available to enjoy during a stay in Portugal.
100% Loureiro
Succes Vinicola ‘Experiencia Parellada’ 2020
Origin: Conca de Barbera, Spain
Retail: $17.95 | Sale: $16.15
Winemakers Albert Canela and Mariona Vendrell began making wine in 2011 at 20 years old, bolstered by participation in a developmental program called Viver de Cellaristes. From their garagiste style winery in the hills of Conca de Barbera, they grow vines organically and also purchase grapes from historical vineyards. These champions of indigenous grapes and environmental stewardship are moving against the traditional Catalonian Cava and cheap rose with pure and vibrant wines.Their first white wine, Experiencia is 100% Parallada, a grape known mostly for its participation in Cava production. Parallada is a grape that enjoys high-altitude and the Experiencia spends 12 hours on skin contact for an almost clear, bright wine. Green apple, peach and apricot flavors are followed by balanced acidity. Calcareous soil gives structure and minerality with a clean finish. A wonderful wine for an easy day, or sitting on the porch after a hot one.
100% Parellada
Descendientes de J. Palacios ‘Petalos’ 2019
Origin: Bierzo, Spain
Retail: $25.95 | Sale: $23.36
With biodynamic practices at the forefront of the hillside vineyards, Descendientes de J. Palacios winery pays homage to both place and family. After the passing of his father in 2000, winemaker Alvaro Palacios created wines that are representative of the Mencia grape that is indigenous to the area, of which ‘Petalos’ is perhaps the most difficult wine to make. This wine drinks smoothly, showing moderate tannin and rustic flavors of berries, plums, and black pepper, all with modern polish.
100% Mencia