Here are some quick facts about the often unnoticed white wines of Spain:

-Airén is the most widely planted grape and also the #1 most planted grape per hectares in the world!

-The native Spanish white varieties are: Albariño, Verdejo, Palomino, Godello, Loureira, and Airén.

-The northwest region of Galicia that is known for its white wines made from Albariño.

-Blends of Albariño and Verdejo are popular plantings the regions of Rueda and Rías Baixas.

-Traditionally, the Spanish used oak barrels for white wine fermentation.

-Stainless steel tanks radically changed the wine industry in warm climate regions like Andalucia, La Mancha and the Levante, making fresher and fruitier whites.

-Cava is a sparkling wine made from native white varietals: Macabeo, Parellada and Xarel·lo.

If you are looking for a delicious Spanish white to try, check out Basa Blanco 2005 from the Rueda region. Only $8.99!