Bodegas Protos, Verdejo Reserva, Rueda, Spain, 2020

An unctuous, briny expression of Verdejo, fermented and aged for seven months in French oak barrels (with a further 17 months in bottle prior to release). Toasty almond and wild fennel dominate the nose, against an expressive backdrop of yellow apple, Asian pear and lemon curd. The palate echoes these aromas, layering them with fleshy walnut and green olive brine. Enjoy with roast chicken and creamy cheeses.