A genuinely unusual wine made from Tempranillo Blanco—a natural white mutation of red Tempranillo discovered in a Rioja vineyard in 1988. This aromatic, tropical-fruited white challenges expectations of what Rioja can produce. Fresh, exotic, and thoroughly modern.
Bright and youthful appearance with attractive golden highlights. The greenish rim indicates freshness and careful handling.
Immediately distinctive—this is not your typical white Rioja. Intense tropical aromatics burst forth: ripe pineapple and exotic lychee lead, supported by fresh citrus and a subtle herbaceous note. There's a honeyed richness that builds as the wine aerates, with delicate floral undertones of acacia and white flowers. A fascinating wine that shows the unique personality of this rare grape variety.
Intensity: Pronounced | Condition: Clean, expressive
Flavours: Tropical fruits, citrus zest, white flowers, hint of fennel, mineral finish
Finish: Medium-long with refreshing citrus and lingering tropical notes
Quality: Very Good — unique expression of a rare variety
Rioja Alta sits at the cooler, higher western end of the Rioja region, at 400-500m elevation. The continental climate with Atlantic influence provides warm days and cool nights. Clay-limestone soils, known locally as "arcillo-calcáreo," contribute minerality and freshness.
The limestone provides excellent drainage and imparts mineral notes, while clay retains water—crucial in Rioja's dry summers. This combination produces wines with both freshness and body. The calcareous soils are particularly suited to white varieties, encouraging higher natural acidity.
Diurnal Range: 15-20°C during growing season
Modern stainless steel vinification
Night harvest to preserve aromatics. Gentle pressing, cold settling. Fermentation at controlled 14-16°C in stainless steel. Brief lees contact for texture. No malolactic fermentation. No oak—purely fruit-driven style.
Focus on expressing the unique character of this rare variety
Founded: 1882
Bodegas Rioja Vega is one of Rioja's oldest continuously operating wineries, founded in 1882 in the town of Viana. The estate has witnessed the entire evolution of modern Rioja winemaking. In recent decades, they've embraced innovation while respecting tradition, being among the first to champion Tempranillo Blanco.
Winemaker: Technical team with focus on both traditional and innovative styles
Rioja Vega believes in bridging tradition and modernity. While they produce classic oak-aged Riojas, they also champion innovation—as evidenced by their work with Tempranillo Blanco. The estate is committed to sustainable viticulture and expressing the diversity of Rioja's terroirs.