Verdejo is a white grape from Spain; it’s best known as the main grape of the Rueda region. This bottling hails from farther south, in the Castilla-La Mancha area.
The Aviana brand was started by five granddaughters of the late Peter Mondavi, whose descendants own the historic Charles Krug winery in the Napa Valley. One of the granddaughters, Angelina Mondavi, is the consulting winemaker, while the others are brand ambassadors. There are currently three wines in the lineup, all sourced from overseas: the verdejo, as well as a Portuguese red blend and a French cabernet sauvignon. All have a suggested retail price of $20.
The verdejo is a standout: racy citrus and lemon peel, hints of almond paste and wet stone, and a lingering finish. It’s a refreshing wine that would pair well with shellfish.