White Rioja

White Rioja, or Rioja Blanco, is a white wine from the Rioja region of Spain, primarily made from the Viura grape (also known as Macabeo), with other grape varieties such as Malvasía, Garnacha Blanca, Tempranillo Blanco, and Maturana Blanca also being used. The style of White Rioja can vary widely, from fresh, unoaked versions to rich, full-bodied wines aged in oak barrels. The wines are known for their bright acidity, fresh fruit flavors, and complex aromas, often displaying a distinctive minerality that reflects the unique terroir of the Rioja region.

Appearance:

• Color: Pale yellow to golden, with variations depending on aging and winemaking style.
• Opacity: Clear and bright, typically indicating a crisp, fresh wine, although aged versions may appear deeper in color.

Aroma:

• Primary Aromas: Lemon, lime, green apple, and melon, providing a fresh and fruity nose.
• Secondary Aromas: Floral notes such as white flowers, along with hints of herbs and subtle spice.
• Tertiary Aromas: In more aged examples, aromas of roasted pineapple, hazelnut, and sometimes a touch of vanilla or almond can emerge due to the influence of oak aging.

Flavor Profile:

• Fruit Flavors: Citrus (lemon, lime), green apple, and melon are predominant. With age, flavors can develop into more tropical fruits like pineapple.
• Other Flavors: A minerality that is often described as flinty or chalky, along with savory undertones in aged wines.
• Oak Influence: Oak aging can add complexity to White Rioja, introducing flavors of vanilla, nutty notes, and a creamy texture. However, some modern styles are made without oak to emphasize freshness and fruitiness.

Structure:

• Body: Medium to full-bodied, depending on the style and aging.
• Tannins: None, as it is a white wine.
• Acidity: Medium to high, providing a fresh, crisp taste.
• Alcohol: Ranges from 12% to 13.5%.