Viña Pomal Maturana Blanca 2020

Vina Pomal Maturana Blanca is made by Bodegas Bilbainas from one of Rioja's oldest and rarest white grapes, Maturana Blanca, once nearly lost and now revived. The fruit comes from Paceta 14, a vineyard the estate owns near the town of Haro, planted at around 448 metres and over fifteen years old. At that altitude and under a strong Atlantic influence, the cool nights preserve the grape's naturally high acidity and green, citric character. The vineyard is worked with a natural cover crop that grows up between the rows, encouraging root competition and vine balance. The wine spends a short four months in French oak, enough to round the texture and add a light savoury depth while leaving the fruit and acidity in the lead. The colour is bright yellow with green nuances. The nose is fresh and citrus-driven, with lemon and grapefruit over white flowers, a touch of pear and a herbal, thyme-like note. The palate is crisp and precise, the firm acidity carrying green apple and citrus peel to a saline, stony finish. Serve chilled at 9 to 11 degrees.