Bodegas Garcia de Olano, Rioja Blanco, La Rioja, Spain 2023
{sustainable} Viura, Verdejo
GREEN APPLE & GENTLE CITRUS, DELICATE FLORAL VIBES
From Rioja’s northernmost frontier, Alavesa, this white unsurprisingly stars the region’s vibrant, venerable Viura (aka Cava country’s champion, Macabeu) showcasing its signature citrus and tree fruit energy. More exotically, Verdejo (at a decidedly reserved 10%) lends whispers of tropical gusto. While Viura is well-equipped for aging gracefully (perhaps surprisingly so for a a grape that’s so conducive to restraint and subtlety), this one is a veritable fountain of youth.
Serving suggestion: Kippered herring on toast. Little gem lettuces w/ radish, carrot, shaved Manchego, & Champagne vinaigrette.