Description
The Sanz family has been growing vines and making wines in Rueda since the beginning of the 19th century. The current proprietors—siblings—Marco, Richard and Alejandro Sanz, represent the sixth generation, taking over the estate around 2003. Bodegas Menade was formally founded in 2005 by the trio, who pioneered organic certification and viticulture in the region. They emphasize natural methods, such as spontaneous fermentation with wild yeast, night harvesting, and biodiversity enhancement through beneficial insects and pollination gardens, while focusing on the revival of Verdejo in the region.
Originating in North Africa and brought to the Iberian Peninsula in the 11th century, Verdejo—now Spain's emblematic white grape—has been central to Rueda since the 1970s DO designation. Castilla y León dominates Verdejo production, particularly premium expressions—like this bottling that was sourced from 25–35-year-old vines grown on clay-limestone soils at 750 meters elevation. 100% organically farmed Verdejo vinified entirely in stainless steel, followed by three weeks on the lees. Concentrated aromas of stone fruit and citrus punctuated with green herbal notes. The palate is round and robust, with flavors of white peach, refreshing salinity and the slight bitterness of fresh citrus zest, typical of Verdejo
