Just Fucking Good White Wine

Verdil was on the verge of disappearing — Neleman has revived this old Valencian grape variety and made it the heart of a white wine blend that shows what Spain has to offer beyond Albariño and Verdejo.

The Neleman winery works in the Valencia region with indigenous grape varieties that had almost been forgotten by the industrial wine industry. Verdil, native to Valencian vineyards for centuries, had hardly been planted in recent decades—until Neleman systematically reintroduced the variety. Part of the wine is fermented in new oak, which gives the naturally fragrant fruit texture and body without masking it.

In the glass, a light straw color. On the nose, white peach, orange blossom, and a hint of melon. The oak adds a slight creaminess to the mouthfeel—a round body, lively acidity, and a medium-long finish with a spicy note.

• Temperature: 10–12 °C
• Dishes: Paella Valenciana, grilled sea bass with garlic oil, young Manchego cheese
• Occasion: Summer evening, relaxed wine evening with curiosity about something unknown