Arriscado Blanco 2025

Cuentaviñas is the project of Eduardo Eguren, a fifth-generation member of the Rioja family behind Sierra Cantabria and Viñedos de Páganos. Arriscado Blanco is built around Garnacha Blanca and Viura with a little Tempranillo, farmed under biodynamic and organic practice, which keeps the vineyard soils alive and the fruit picked with bright natural acidity. The wine is aged twelve months in oak barrels. Barrel ageing on its lees allows mannoproteins to be released as the dead yeast cells break down, giving the wine a rounder, creamier texture, while slow oxygen ingress through the wood adds a gentle nutty complexity without flattening the fruit. The oak contributes restrained vanilla and spice rather than overt wood. Expect a pale gold wine with a fresh, layered nose of green apple, white peach and ripe pear, lifted by citrus peel and a touch of honey. The palate is textured and savoury, the lees-derived weight balanced by firm acidity and a faintly almond, mineral finish. Serve at 10 to 12 degrees in a standard white glass. It pairs with roast chicken, grilled oily fish and cured pork.