Zestos Old Vines Malvar Blanco

Zestos Blanco is perhaps one of the most complex white-wines produced in Spain. It is also a tremendous value. If you have a demanding palate and love the bright acid of Sauvignon blanc and the body of chardonnay, the Malvar grape will greatly reward your taste. Zestos means basket in Spanish. Not too many years ago, baskets like the ones depicted on the label were use to transport grapes from the vineyard to the wineries. Zestos Blanco is produced from Malvar vines that were planted in 1974. It displays peach, nectarine and orange scents, it finishes smooth and broad, with good cling. The rare grape by the name of Malvar is indigenous to the Iberian Peninsula, and it is the principal white variety of the Madrid wine region. It is also known as Lairen. In 2008 Spain had a total of 266 ha (657 acres) of land under vine. Madrid has recently become the center of one of the most interesting and innovative wine regions on the Iberian Peninsula. The outskirts of this storied royal city are filled with old vines situated in high elevation vineyards that have been planted in ideal soils. Madrid is a sort of “great unknown” that is now just freshly discovered. Most people are unaware that Madrid makes wine and because Vinos de Madrid is not yet “on the radar” of the consumer, it is a great source of incredible values today.

Aromas: White flowers, citrus, green apple, and stone fruits like apricot and peach.

Palate: Tropical notes of mango and passion fruit, balanced by mineral, flinty, or “wet rock” undertones.

Winemaking: The wine is typically unoaked, fermented, and aged in stainless steel or cement tanks to preserve its fresh, fruit-forward character.

Pairing: Its versatility makes it a great match for fresh seafood (sushi, sea bass, shellfish), roast chicken, light pastas, and salads.