Back from the Brink... Again!

Las Brisas
Rueda
13% alcohol
$10
2006

If you didn't already know that this wine was from Northwest Spain, you might think, from looking at the ViniCode™, that this wine was a Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand. And the tastes are that similar! But the grape from which this wine comes, Verdejo, is far less familiar than the ubiquitous SB. Spain is not known for their high quality white grapes, and Verdejo is generally seen as one of the better ones. It is native to Northwest Spain and is the principal component of Rueda whites. Las Brisas is 100% Verdejo. Rueda, the region, was destroyed by the Moors in the 10th Century, but rescued from complete devastation by Alphonse XI  in the 11th Century. It was under his reign that wine began to be commercially produced in the area. At this time the preferred style was a sweeter, sherry-like beverage. As history repeats, the 20th Century was also not very kind to Rueda which again suffered in the Spanish Civil War. It was the venerable winemaker Marques de Riscal that saved the region and the grape. Now these wines are being favorably compared to Sancerre and New Zealand's Sauvignon Blancs. With the summer drawing to a close, this is the perfect time to enjoy one of these light, acidic wines. As you are drinking it, notice how it opens up as it warms. Where a sauvignon blanc might become lackluster, this Rueda becomes riper and fuller. We would definitely buy this wine again.