I first learned of this wine from Eric Asimov’s New York Times column 20 under $20. In it he says its made by Juan Antonio Ponce, of Bodegas Ponce of which I am familiar from his outstanding Bobal La Casilla. Still, the bottle has no visible references to the grapes or the maker other than “Parra Jimenez”. So I delved a bit further and found the grapes are grown by Friend and Farmer and HAND WORK which is a dream of three brothers, Francisco, Javier and Luis Parra. Their goal is to celebrate their home of La Mancha by raising organically and biodynamically grown grapes. The winemaking behind is the exceptional Juan Antonio Ponce of Bodegas Ponce.
This is an orange wine. For those unfamiliar with this style of wine the color comes from leaving the skins of white wine grapes to ferment with the juice instead of removing them—basically making white wine in the same manner as red. The wine is made from 50% Verdejo and 50% Sauvignon Blanc grapes.
The wine displays a wonderful texture and alluring aromas, with notes of zesty citrus and the characteristic tartness of sauvignon blanc. This wine is the quintessential “quaffing” spring/summer wine. Only 11% alcohol, makes it very refreshing and very drinkable. In addition rather than using the standard 750ml bottle, it comes in a full liter…a bonus! $19.99