2021 Finca Allende Rioja Blanco, Rioja

Coming from a cooler year with good rain and wines with ripeness and freshness, the 2021 Allende Blanco is expressive, clean and still young. It's mostly Viura with 5% Malvasía Riojana and has 13.6% alcohol and very good freshness showcased by the pH of 3.24. It has a medium-bodied palate with a velvety mouthfeel and very pure flavors. The oak is neatly integrated, and the wine comes through as fresh and harmonious, with stuffing and balance between the elements to develop nicely in bottle. It spent 14 months in French barrels, the seven first with the lees and bâtonnage twice per week and the rest clean, without lees. This is one of the finest vintages for this wine. It was bottled in April 2023.

93+ points Luis Gutierrez, The Wine Advocate

White Rioja can be a wonderful surprise, particularly in the hands of Miguel Ángel de Gregorio. Since establishing Finca Allende in Briones in 1995, he has championed the old vineyards and limestone rich clay soils of Rioja Alta. His Blanco is centred on Viura, a grape capable of remarkable texture and complexity when treated with care. Fermentation and ageing in oak add richness without losing the freshness of this Atlantic influenced region.

Bright golden straw with pale lemon reflections. Ripe pear, quince and yellow apple mingle with lemon peel, chamomile, toasted almond and a hint of warm spice. The 2021 vintage has a beautifully rounded texture, balanced by lively acidity and a subtle mineral edge. Gentle oak and savoury notes linger through a long, satisfying finish.

Wonderful with grilled cuttlefish and saffron aioli, Basque style salt cod with roasted peppers, or crispy artichokes with lemon and parsley. A delicious alternative to white Burgundy.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2032. Already developing lovely savoury complexity, with further potential ahead.