April’s Superstar Wine of the Month

José Pariente “Verdejo 2009”, a quality Verdejo.

Now the weather has brightened up I can’t imagine a better way of spending these warm April days than finally sitting outside a nice pub or on a restaurant terrace, sipping a lovely white wine, waiting for my meal to come.

This is my favourite time of year, bright sun coupled with a fresh springtime breeze make me feel summer holidays are inching closer every day!

Some of my most treasured Easters have been spent in Spain. I love their relaxed, late lunches – fresh seafood tapas and the taste of salt in the air.  You know, a little glass of white wine or sherry as a pre-lunch aperitif whets the appetite and gives a proper holiday feel to the day.

Even though Spain is famous for red wine, there are some delicious, refreshing whites that must be sampled.  The Verdejo grapes of the north-central Rueda region give a light, grassy taste reminiscent of a Sauvignon Blanc, with aromatic, verdant notes and smooth, nutty length.

Verdejo José Pariente 2009 is one of my favourites, as it shows all the very best characters of the variety, with plenty of fruity, spring-like flavours, I’m transported straight into holiday mode!

Price approximately £ 10-11 per bottle

Available on line at: www.snooth.co.uk