Yllera 5.5 Verdejo Frizzante

Yllera 5.5 Verdejo Frizzante is a low alcohol sparkling white made by Grupo Yllera in Castilla y León, from Verdejo grown on vineyards between 25 and 40 years old. Older vines carry smaller crops and give more concentrated fruit, which matters for a wine this light in body. The harvest is done at night, while temperatures are low, so the grapes reach the winery cool and keep their fresh aromatics and natural acidity. After destemming, a cold pre-fermentation maceration on the skins draws out the varietal aromas before pressing, then fermentation follows at controlled temperature to protect the fruit. A light carbonation gives the frizzante spritz. The wine pours pale with a soft, persistent bead. The nose is fresh and citrus driven, with green apple, lemon zest and a touch of white flowers, while the palate is crisp, gently effervescent and finishes clean and short, held together by bright acidity rather than weight. At 5.5 per cent it stays easy and undemanding. Serve well chilled at 6 to 8 degrees in a white wine glass or a flute. It works as an aperitif and alongside light salads, fresh shellfish and simply grilled white fish.