Finca La Emperatriz Rioja Blanco Viñedo Singular 2019, 0,75 l

A top-class Rioja Blanco: the Finca La Emperatriz Blanco Viñedo Singular 2019 is made from the oldest Viura vines on the historic estate and demonstrates why Rioja’s great white wines are so fascinating.

The grapes are harvested by hand and sorted on a sorting table. After six hours of maceration, half the wine ferments in concrete tanks, whilst the other half ferments in 225-litre barrels. The wine is then aged on its fine lees for four months before undergoing further ageing for eight months in concrete tanks and nine months in French oak.

On the nose, it is initially delicate and elegant, with aromas of macadamia nut, lemon tart, jasmine and honeysuckle. On the palate, it is creamy and well-structured, with a subtle salty note.

A great white Rioja with lovely tension and a long, refined finish – wonderful with pan-fried fish, poultry or mature cheese.