I was searching for a Spanish white wine made from the Verdejo grape, similar in style and flavor to Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris. However, the shop owner didn’t have any in stock but recommended another wine to me, primarily Albilio Real. This grape offers mostly neutral flavors and a light perfume aroma.
Just a short distance west of Madrid, you’ll find Bodegas Bernabeleva. Nestled at the foot of the Cerro de Guisando and Gredos mountains, this winery allows its vines to spread their roots in the infertile sandy soils composed of decomposed granite. For four generations, these old and resilient vines have been cared for, resulting in quality fruit that is carefully hand-harvested from the organically managed vineyards. Plots of Garnacha, Albillo, and Moscatel de Grano Menudo are vinified separately, without any fining or filtering, ensuring that the essence of both the land and the love invested in the process shines through.
The organically grown vines, although not certified, range from 15 to 60 years old. They are manually harvested from the shallow granite slopes throughout San Martín de Valdeiglesias, situated at an altitude of 750 meters above sea level or higher.
This wine offers a fresh profile with enticing aromas of honey and wild flowers. It presents clean and balanced fruit flavors, complemented by balsamic notes. A good suggestion and moderately priced @ $18.
Albillo Real 50%, Moscatel De Grano Menudo 20%, Others 30%
Alcohol 12.5%