Grapes: Viura & Malvasia

Region: Rioja Alta

Winemaking: Wine is fermented in barrel, has 8 months on its lees and then a further 7 months in new French oak. (They tend to use French oak rather than American for all their wines)

ABV: 14%

Tasting Note
This has been a firm Reserve Fave for many years. Every year we taste it and are completely blown away by the quality - this year was no exception. At a recent tasting in London this kicked off the Allende line up and we weren't disappointed. It's a full bodied, creamy style of Rioja bursting with tropical fruits. Rich and complex there's melon, pineapple and pears with a spicy finish. The oak, acidity and fruits all work so beautifully together, this is about as good as white Rioja gets!

Cellaring
This was 2006 vintage and I think it had a lot of life left in it. I would happily drink it now but would love to try it in 2 years time, then 5 years time and even 10 years time…mmm this is adding up.

If you like this why not try… Rather than more Riojas I would say try some other quirky whites. The Ca dei Frati white, (another of my longstanding favourite wineries), Pratto - a magnificent blend of Sauvignon and Chardonnay - is another rich and powerful wine. Or what about a white from the Southern Rhone, Chante Cigale, Vignes d'Alexandre - a blend of Viognier, Marsanne and Rousanne. Delish.