SPAIN - Alvarez y Diez has produced a distinctive, alluring wine with their 2005 Mantel Blanco that is entirely comprised of the Verdejo grape. Verdejo has long been grown in Spain’s Rueda region and is often times blended with Sauvignon Blanc or Macabeo. This delicious interpretation of the grape comes from old-vines and takes on a full-bodied, round mouth feel from the French and American oak barrel fermenting. Bright straw yellow in color, the 2005 Mantel Blanco has a very expressive nose with tropical fruit notes and touches of sweet spice and cocoa. The full fruited flavors and excellent acidity make this wine best enjoyed with fresh cheeses, mixed salads, poultry, fish, and rice dishes.