Grape: Macabeo
Region: Manchuela, Castilla-La Mancha, Spain
Features: Organic, Vegan

Producer's Notes:

"Winemaker Maria Jover, who honed her craft at Vega Sicilia before she returned to her native Levante, produces wonderfully fresh wines from the parched vineyards in and around Jumilla. Since its beginning just ten years ago, the winery has focused efforts on preservation of the Terraje farming system, whereby landholders rent their vineyard to the farmers, ensuring care and respect for the vines in return for a small percentage of production, in this case about 7%. While nearly all of the 80-90 year old vines in Jumilla are currently farmed in this manner, the future is less certain; as many landowners are advancing changes that would increase the productivity of the vines. Parajes del Valle is committed to ensuring that the Terraje system is preserved, ensuring the higher quality old vine fruit and higher pay for those tending the vines. While the vast majority of her production is red from monastrell, here we have our first look at a skin-macerated white (orange wine) made from macabeo, which is widely planted throughout Spain and southern France. Peaches, almonds, and oolong tea pervade and suggest pairing with the best version of Mediterranean fare you can arrange in this cold heart of winter in New England."