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$56
Hermanos Hernáiz makes this single-vineyard Viura from the Finca La Emperatriz in Rioja. Aged on its lees in barrel and old stone lagares, plus a spell in amphora, it is a rich, savoury white with toast, almond and honey.
In stock
Description
Finca La Emperatriz Blanco is a Viñedo Singular single-vineyard Viura from Viñedos Hermanos Hernáiz in the D.O.Ca. Rioja, the estate's benchmark white. Viura, known elsewhere as Macabeo, is the classic white grape of Rioja and takes well to oak and lees ageing. The wine is raised in several vessels: four months on its lees in barrel, nine months in barrel and a further eight months in old stone lagares, alongside a period in amphora. That combination is deliberate. Barrel and lees contact build a creamy, savoury texture and toasty depth, the old lagares add slow oxidative complexity, and the amphora contributes texture without wood flavour, keeping the wine fresh at its full 13.9 percent. It shows a deep straw colour and a nose of white peach and pear over toasted bread, almond and vanilla, with a honeyed, waxy note from the extended ageing. The palate is full and layered, with a firm line of acidity carrying a long, savoury finish. Serve at 11 to 13 degrees in a large glass.
Additional information
Serve it with baked hake, roast chicken or grilled salmon, where its weight and toasty texture come into their own. The savoury, nutty character also pairs well with hard cheeses such as aged Manchego and Gruyère.
