The 2008 Shaya Habis is a special selection that is also barrel-fermented and aged on its lees in large oak. It displays a nose of toasty baking spices, nutmeg, spring flowers, marzipan, and pit fruits. A bit richer and more complex on the palate than the “regular” cuvee, this vibrant effort could evolve for 1-2 years but is drinking well now.Bodegas Shaya is a new collaboration between the Gil family of Jumilla and importer Jorge Ordonez.Importer: Jorge Ordonez, Fine Estates from Spain, Dedham, MA; tel. (781) 461-5767

Butter, toast and resiny aromas tell you immediately that it’s barrel fermented, but unlike some of the competition, this wine manages to hold onto its core of green apple, white peach and pear without letting the oak interfere. Excellent with food, and it improves rapidly with each ten-minute interval. A great example of oak-aged Verdejo. Drink now. ——M.S.(10/1/2010)—— 91