Perla del Mar 2020

Are you ready for a taste of Spanish history?

The white wines of Spain’s seaside Alicante region have been prized since the early 15th century. Back then, they were produced by royal appointment to be enjoyed by monarchs, cardinals and the most celebrated admirals. In fact, sailors loved the wines so much they called them Perla del Mar (Pearl of the Sea). And legend has it that an Alicante white was the first wine to travel the whole world, accompanying Juan Sebastián Elcano on his second circumnavigation of the globe.

Made in honor of this illustrious history, our modern Perla del Mar proves that the Alicante region is still going strong. This elegant white hails from Santa Catalina, a cooperative founded in 1962 by a small group of local growers. Head winemaker Pamela Geddes (who has worked for some of Spain and Australia’s top estates) crafted it with assistance from rising star Anna Booth.

Pamela and Anna hand selected the grapes from 42-year-old vines in the La Marina vineyard. Located a stone’s throw from the beach, this special plot benefits from a warm Mediterranean climate (key to ripening grapes) and cooling sea breezes that lock in vibrancy. Moscatel (aka Moscato) makes up the majority of the blend, alongside zippy Sauvignon Blanc, aromatic Viura and luscious Viognier.

But what does it taste like? Here’s Gilbert & Gaillard judges, who awarded Perla del Mar a coveted gold medal: “Nose of citrus fruits and white flowers with faint herbal notes. Lively, zippy attack, mirroring the nose and revealing refreshing salinity on the finish. Drink with oysters or grilled fish.”

You don’t have to be a king or a sailor to fall for this lovely Spanish white. Secure your share today.