Belondrade y Lurton Blanco 2021

Winery Background and History

Belondrade y Lurton was founded in 1994 by Frenchman Didier Belondrade in the Rueda region of Spain. The winery aimed to elevate the Verdejo grape by applying Burgundian winemaking techniques, such as barrel fermentation and aging. Belondrade’s commitment to quality and innovation has positioned the winery as a benchmark for premium white wines in Spain, showcasing the potential of Verdejo beyond its traditional expressions.

Producer and Winemaker

The winery is led by founder Didier Belondrade, who collaborates with a dedicated team to produce wines that reflect both the terroir of Rueda and the finesse of Burgundian whites. Their approach emphasizes organic farming, meticulous vineyard management, and careful vinification processes to craft wines of elegance and complexity.

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. The vineyards are situated at elevations ranging from 700 to 800 meters, benefiting 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 2021 Belondrade y Lurton Blanco exhibits a pale golden hue. The nose offers aromas of citrus fruits, green apple, pear, and subtle floral and herbaceous notes. On the palate, it is round and firm, with a creamy texture, crisp acidity, and a fine bitterness on the finish. Flavors of white peach, lemon zest, and toasted bread unfold, leading to a long and complex finish.

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs beautifully with grilled lobster, creamy risotto, roasted poultry, and aged 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 2021 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

95% Verdejo, 5% Viognier

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14%

Scores

• Wine Advocate: 95

• Vinous: 94

• Jancis Robinson: 18.5