Barbeito Verdelho Reserva 2018

Vinhos Barbeito was founded in Madeira in 1946, and alongside its fortified wines it produces a limited range of still bottlings, of which this Verdelho Reserva is one. The fruit grows on volcanic soils on an island ringed by ocean, a cool maritime climate that keeps acidity firm and alcohol moderate at eleven percent. Ageing runs twelve months split between barrel and stainless steel tanks. The steel guards the fresh citrus and orchard fruit, while the barrel portion, along with time on the fine lees, lends a subtle toasted edge and rounds the texture. It shows a fresh, elegant nose where white and yellow fruits meet a delicate toastiness. The palate is precise and mineral, with lemon, white peach and pear held by bright acidity, and the finish is clean and saline, marked by the island's volcanic character. This is a still wine built on freshness and detail rather than weight. Serve chilled at around 10 to 11 degrees in a standard white glass.