One of Spain’s most venerated wines, Rioja year celebrates the centennial anniversary of its official recognition as a Denomination of Origin. Given its lengthy history, it’s no surprise that Rioja is so well known in vinous circles. It’s wines are high quality, age-worthy and wonderful. For a historical look at these wines and their ageability, see this article. Yet, most of this praise is heaped upon its red wines, at the expense of its whites and roses.

Yes, in case you didn’t know, Rioja is also home to blanco and rosado wines, which are perfect for pairing, especially this time of year! Admittedly, these wines make up a small percentage of Rioja’s total production, but, with its high-altitude vineyards and emphasis on native grapes, the region of Rioja is well suited to crafting quality whites and roses. In particular, the whites rely on Viura, but may be supplemented with Chardonnay or other varieties. Meanwhile, like the reds, the roses feature Tempranillo, along with the other permitted varieties such as Graciano and Garnacha.

If you haven’t had the pleasure of these wines, I highly recommend them. In particular, I recently had the opportunity to taste through two Rioja Blancos — the CVNE Monopole, which has always been a favorite and the Faustino I 2019 Gran Reserva Blanco Rioja.

The Bodegas C.V.N.E. Monople Blanco 2023 ($13.99) was a lovely companion for our picnic with neighbors in the local park. We paired it with salad Nicoise and it provided a crisp and refreshing option. Produced from 100% Viura, it offered up notes of citrus, apple and herbaceousness, with medium body, good acidity and long length.

For a fuller-bodied bottle, the Faustino I 2019 Gran Reserva Blanco Rioja ($36.95) is made from a blend of Viura and Chardonnay, which have been aged in oak barrels for over four years, hence its designation of Gran Reserva. This wine has long life ahead of it, but for now, it is displaying aromas of nuts, apples and rich, lush stone fruit. With bright acidity, full body, the palate shows minerality and salinity, culminating in long length.

For more on Rioja and its wines, see:
https://itsawinederfullife.com/the-wines-of-rioja-something-for-everyone/

https://itsawinederfullife.com/fun-times-with-fresh-wines-riojas-el-coto-wines/