A white wine from Puglia, this blend of 90% Verdeca and 10% Fiano Minutolo is part of the Askos collection of Masseria Li Veli, an effort to bring indigenous grape varieties back into production using modern methods of vinification. Traditionally known as a “neutral” wine, Verdeca once found use in the production of vermouth. Planting declined sharply when vermouth fell out of favor.
This lively wine is anything but neutral, with nose and taste of tropical fruits, a bit of spiciness, good acidity and fullness on the palate. Notes from the winery indicate that an effort was made to retain aroma by refrigerating the grapes immediately after picking and macerating the must. I paid $18 in Washington, DC.