If you've fallen into a bit of a wine rut lately and are looking for something really tasty, but out of the ordinary, we've got the wine for you! The Verdejo grape is native to central Spain's Rueda district. It's a low yielding, but very distinctive variety. Many growers, frustrated at the low production, ripped up their vineyards and replanted them with the much more prolific but, in this region, far less characterful Palomino grape. The very existence of the Verdejo was threatened before people realized that it was truly something unique and special.

The 2007 Mantel Blanco Verdejo is enough to make a Verdejo fan out of any white wine lover. The aroma has an exotic appeal with elements of violets, ripe pears, peach and spice. With just a little breathing, the flavors show an equally exotic style, not unlike that of the Viognier grape of France's famed Condrieu region. Its rich, spicy and smooth character makes it a fine choice to accompany richer seafood dishes as well as many chicken, veal and pork recipes. Too, its spicy elegance makes it a good companion for pasta salads and other lighter fare. Add some spice and unique style to your late summer menus with the consummate good taste of this superior Spanish white.