2019 Insula Vinus - Verdelho (750ml)

This 100% Verdelho comes from winemaker Paulo Machado's Insula Vinus project on Pico Island in Portugal's remote Azores archipelago, roughly a thousand miles off the mainland coast. The fruit is sourced from two distinct sites: Paulo's own vineyards on the southern slope of Mount Pico in São Mateus, and old vines along the island's western coast in Criação Velha. Farmed organically, the vines grow in the volcanic, wind-sheltered stone enclosures that helped earn Pico's vineyard landscape UNESCO World Heritage status. After harvest, the wine is fermented and aged sur lie for roughly two years in small horizontal tanks, a slow, hands-on process that builds texture and complexity.

The result is an aromatic, high-toned white with notes of toast, butterscotch, and caramel mingling with tropical fruit like pineapple and guava, along with hints of blood orange. On the palate, expect a creamy, silky texture balanced by the volcanic soil's signature minerality and salinity, with flavors of lime and oatmeal lingering on a long finish. Vibrant acidity keeps the wine lifted and food-friendly.

Pairs beautifully with fresh seafood, fried foods, and crisp green salads.