Belondrade y Lurton 2020

Winery Background and History

Established in 1994 by Frenchman Didier Belondrade in La Seca, Valladolid, Spain, Belondrade y Lurton aimed to elevate the Verdejo grape by applying Burgundian winemaking techniques. The winery’s commitment to quality and innovation has positioned it as a benchmark for premium white wines in Spain, showcasing the potential of Verdejo beyond its traditional expressions.

Producer and Winemaker

Under the guidance of Didier Belondrade and his team, the winery emphasizes organic farming, meticulous vineyard management, and careful vinification processes. Each plot is harvested by hand, fermented, and aged separately to preserve its unique character, resulting in wines that reflect both the terroir of Rueda and the finesse of Burgundian whites.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Belondrade y Lurton sources grapes from its estate, Quinta San Diego, comprising 23 organically farmed plots with vines aged between 5 and 60 years. Situated at elevations ranging from 700 to 800 meters, the vineyards benefit from a continental climate with significant diurnal temperature variations. Soils are predominantly sandy with gravel and a deep chalky layer, contributing to the wine’s minerality and structure.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested and undergo spontaneous fermentation in French oak barrels using indigenous yeasts. Each plot is vinified separately to preserve its unique character. The wine is aged on its lees in French oak barrels for approximately 10 months, followed by an additional 5 months of bottle aging before release. This process imparts complexity, texture, and integration of flavors.

Tasting Notes

The 2020 Belondrade y Lurton Blanco exhibits a bright yellow hue. The nose offers aromas of stone fruits, white flowers, and hay, complemented by well-integrated smoky notes reminiscent of toasted bread and subtle hints of vanilla. On the palate, it is unctuous and structured, with a persistent yet fresh and slightly saline finish. The citrus character, accompanied by a slightly bitter finish, is a signature of Verdejo. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including vegetables and salads, mollusks, seafood, and soft cheeses. Its richness and acidity complement dishes with creamy textures and savory flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 10–12°C (50–54°F) in medium-sized white wine glasses to fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and texture. Decanting is not necessary, but allowing the wine to breathe for a few minutes after opening can enhance its expressive qualities.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature between 12–15°C (54–59°F). The 2020 vintage has the structure and balance to age gracefully for 6–8 years, during which it will develop additional tertiary aromas and flavors, such as honey, nuts, and dried fruits, enhancing its complexity and depth.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Verdejo

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14%

Scores

• Robert Parker: 94

• Dutch Wine Apprentice: 95