Tempranillo Blanco is a color mutation of a red Tempranillo (the Pinots Noir, Gris, and Blanc are related this way as well) that was discovered from a single vine in the Rioja Oriental in the 1980s. Today it has been propagated to around 800 hectares!
With a bit of gentle extraction from the skins before fermentation, and a brief aging on the fine lees, this white has a savory-edged finish, a light chalky grip, and a creamy textural edge to the fruit. This adds complexity to an otherwise easy-going, fresh style of Rioja Blanco. The winery describes "aromas of pineapple, banana and cooking apples, as well as subtle hints of white blossom." This is a white for medium-textured fish dishes, chicken, and rice dishes like paella or risotto.
"Simple, fresh nose of white nectarines, green plums and a creamy touch. Phenolic and lightly tannic, with a [medium body]... structured finish. Vegan." - Zekun Shuai, JAMES SUCKLING
"Contrebia Leucade (white settlement) is the name of a Celtiberian site in Rioja Oriental where the first vestiges of viticulture in our land appeared (3rd century BC)."
With a bit of gentle extraction from the skins before fermentation, and a brief aging on the fine lees, this white has a savory-edged finish, a light chalky grip, and a creamy textural edge to the fruit. This adds complexity to an otherwise easy-going, fresh style of Rioja Blanco. The winery describes "aromas of pineapple, banana and cooking apples, as well as subtle hints of white blossom." This is a white for medium-textured fish dishes, chicken, and rice dishes like paella or risotto.
"Simple, fresh nose of white nectarines, green plums and a creamy touch. Phenolic and lightly tannic, with a [medium body]... structured finish. Vegan." - Zekun Shuai, JAMES SUCKLING
"Contrebia Leucade (white settlement) is the name of a Celtiberian site in Rioja Oriental where the first vestiges of viticulture in our land appeared (3rd century BC)."
