Aragosta, Vermentino di Sardegna 2008.

I managed to get out and back from Spain despite the Volcanic cloud and an edge-of-seat, close to expired passport. I flew to Malaga on a work ''associated'' trip last Friday and consumed a large quantity of shellfish teamed with Spanish Vermentino and Viura- Verdejo blends. Unfortunately- for the blog and radio the Vermentino consumed on my long weekend is not available in Ireland, fortunately enough for personal reasons the Spanish Vermentino is not available in Ireland - If this makes any sense. My palate/ stomach is not settled enough to relive or taste last Friday/Saturday/Sunday but I do sell a great little Sardinian Vermentino which is just as appealing minus the wine memories of a tough few days.
Cantina Santa Maria La Palma, Vermentino di Sardegna, Aragosta, 2008. A mouth full but it's generally remembered more commonly as the 'lobster wine' due to the orange crustacean on the label. I was always convinced that this shelled fish was a lobster up until last nights debate. It's either a very small lobster or a large prawn. I'll know what you mean if you come in search of it.
A pale lemon - almost clear wine in the glass. The nose, although subtle, has quite complex aromas. I get pear, cloudy apple juice and hints of lavender. Evelyn picks up candle wax and a smokiness, though I can't detect this at all. The palate is completely different, dry, flinty, crisp and clean with citrus fruit but little acidity - hence the easy drinking that comes with opening a bottle.
For those that enjoy a Gavi or Chablis and are looking to try a similar style but something new, this is it. It also warrants a far more financially pleasing price tag than most of the other two on the Irish market.
Try it with sole fish, mussels, sardines or prawns and if you're having difficulty making it to the fishmongers, a summer salad is just as good.
O&O

Ruth.

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