Javier Sanz Verdejo 2025

Javier Sanz is a family grower in La Seca, in the heart of the D.O. Rueda, and this Verdejo comes from his most personal selection at the Villa Narcisa estate. The old vines are over forty years old, planted on clay soils with a scatter of pebbles at the surface. Those old, low yielding vines and the stony clay give concentration and a savoury depth, while Rueda's continental climate, with its wide day to night temperature range, keeps the acidity firm and the fruit precise. All the work is done by hand. The wine ferments in stainless steel at controlled temperature to protect the aromatics, then rests three months on its fine lees. That lees contact releases mannoproteins that broaden the palate and add a subtle savoury weight while keeping the wine fresh. It is pale with green glints. The nose enters with vigour and clarity, showing sweet grapefruit and green apple lifted by a light anise and fennel note that marks good Verdejo. The palate is crisp and textured, with citrus, a herbal edge and a saline, faintly bitter finish that adds length. Serve at 8 to 10 degrees. It suits shellfish, white fish and fresh salads.