The 2010 Ducado de Altan is 100% Verdejo fermented and aged in stainless steel. Fresh herb, mineral, and pit fruit aromas and flavors make for a savory, spicy, refreshing white that lacks the complexity of the Las Brisas bottling. Even so, it is an excellent value for drinking over the next 2-3 years. Importer: Aviva Vino, New York, NY; Tel. (212) 244-4495

The 2009 Ducado de Altan is 100% Verdejo sourced from 20 years old vines and raised in stainless steel. Medium straw-colored, it displays a nose of mineral, baking spices, flowers, spiced apple, and melon. On the palate it has excellent volume, depth, and intensity. It has loads of savory flavor, impeccable balance, and a lengthy, pure finish. It, too, is an outstanding value. Importer: Aviva Vino, New York, NY; tel. (212) 244-4495

Lime, citrus and other pungent aromas get it off to a good start, while the palate is wet and fresh, with clean, familiar grapefruit, lime and nectarine flavors. Lighter and less concentrated than Naia, but still a very good Verdejo for the price. ——M.S.(12/15/2010)—— 87