Viuda Negra Finca Villahuercos 2023

Javier San Pedro Ortega makes Viuda Negra Finca Villahuercos in Rioja from Tempranillo Blanco, a white mutation of the red Tempranillo that is now bottled on its own. The vineyard is farmed with a respectful, sustainable approach, on the clay and limestone soils typical of the region. The wine is fermented in barrel and aged for nine months in French oak. Fermenting the juice in wood rather than steel binds the oak more closely to the fruit and, with time on the lees, builds a fuller, creamier texture and a subtle toasty character. It pours bright yellow and shows ripe pear, white peach, citrus and a light note of vanilla and toasted bread from the barrel. The palate is broad and textured, with orchard fruit and a savoury, gently spiced edge held by fresh acidity through a long finish. This is a barrel white with body and detail rather than an easy aperitif. Serve it at 11 to 13 degrees in a large glass.