Ontanon Vetiver Rioja Blanco

Bodegas Ontanon is a 5th generation family-owned and run winery in Rioja Baja (now Rioja Oriental). Here Raquel, Ruben and Maria Perez Cuevas continue their father Gabriel's work to develop Bodegas Ontanon into one of the most highly-regarded wineries in Rioja. Ontanon has vast swathes of vineyard in this part of Rioja. Whilst wine production in the region is typically very dependent on contracts with grape growers, the Perez Cuevas family has seen fit to invest heavily in the purchase of its own land and vines. Its 250ha is a testament to the importance it places on controlling grape quality.

The family's vineyards sit high in the Sierra Yerga mountains in the prestigious region surrounding Quel, defying misconceptions that Rioja Baja is one of the lesser sub-regions within Rioja. Many of their vineyards are actually planted at altitudes on a par with, or above, those in Rioja Alta and Alavesa; (La Pasada is their highest vineyard at 800m above sea level, planted in 1979 it is used for Reserva and Gran Reserva wines). The hot and dry Mediterranean climate allows for consistent ripening of the grapes with little disease and this has enabled them to pursue organic production across 57 hectares of vines.

Viura,

Produced solely from Viura grapes grown in the Siete Caminos vineyard, on south-east facing slopes.

This wine is aged according to the typical white Rioja method: 4 months in American oak followed by 6 months in bottle prior to release

Whilst not exactly mainstream, white Rioja is now most definitely a ‘thing’. With examples like this it’s easy to see why. Produced solely from Viura and given 4 months in American oak to mellow you get just the right balance between ripe tropical fruit and toasty brioche.

Opulent aromas of pear and jasmine, with tropical notes and well-integrated oak. The palate is poised with pineapple, vanilla and crisp lemon acidity - and brioche notes on the finish.

Try with lobster or langoustines with cream-based pasta sauce, or roast chicken dishes.