Chef Mateo

The heat wave has made me thirsty for some white wines, and what better way to breeze the palate than with Spanish whites from the 2010 vintage which are ready to drink and great values.

Ostatu Blanco Viura, Rioja

Pionero Mundi Albarino, Rias Baixas

Javier Sanz Verdejo, Rueda

Edatana Garnatxa Blanca, Terra Alta

Uriondo Txakolina, Pais Vasco

Montenovo Godello, Valdeorras

Sameiras Treixadura, Ribeiro

Xarmant Txakoli, Pais Vasco

Sinols Blanc Macabeo/Garnacha, Emporda

Pardevalles Albarin, Leon

While comparing all the cuvees La Rioja Alta has to offer, I have often preferred the Vina Arana, which is the most Burgundian in style.  The recent vintages (past 1994) have been styled a bit more Alta Expression for my taste, save for this stunner.

This wine illustrates and accentuates what many wine critics in La Rioja to be a superlative, extraordinary vintage, 2001.

The make-up is traditional/classic, blending tempranillo with garnacha.   The outcome is old school.  A brick red Rioja built to last a quarter century, reminding me of the ’64 and ’73, the only other occasions to achieve “Reserva Especial” designation.   After tasting a bottle, I bought a case, as the evolution of this beauty will be enjoyable and highly rewarded.

Rooster Rating: 95