The Rioja Winery Focused on Making Stunning White Wines Instead of Red

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The region is also home to the famous Rioja Blanco, which is made from the Verdejo grape.

The Rise of White Rioja

In recent years, Rioja has been gaining recognition for its white wines, particularly Rioja Blanco. This wine is made from the Verdejo grape and is known for its crisp acidity and flavors of citrus, green apple, and stone fruit. Rioja Blanco is often described as a refreshing and revitalizing wine, making it perfect for sipping on a warm summer day. Characteristics of Rioja Blanco: + Crisp acidity + Flavors of citrus, green apple, and stone fruit + Refreshing and revitalizing + Often described as a “summer wine”

The Tempranillo Grape

The Tempranillo grape is the backbone of Rioja’s red wines. This grape variety is known for its thick skin, which gives the wine its distinctive color and tannins.

The winery has been family-owned for four generations, with the current owner being Emilio Ollauri. Emilio Ollauri, also known as Emilio Ollauri III, has taken the reins of the winery after his father, Emilio Ollauri II, who was the previous owner and winemaker. Emilio Ollauri II was the one who had expanded the winery’s production and introduced the concept of a “bodega” as a single-family-run winery. His son, Emilio Ollauri III, has continued this family tradition by introducing new products, such as organic wines, to the winery’s portfolio. The winery is known for producing high-quality wines, including the famous “Ollauri” and “Ollauri Reserva” wines. The winery’s wines are made from a variety of grapes, including Tempranillo, Garnacha, and Mazuelo.

The collection is said to be one of the largest in the world, with over 1,000 bottles available for tasting and sale.

The Conde de los Andes Collection: A Treasure Trove of Fine Whites

The Conde de los Andes collection is a renowned treasure trove of fine whites, boasting an impressive array of vintages that span over eight decades.

The wine’s acidity is also a key factor in its aging potential, as it helps to preserve the wine’s fruit flavors and aromas over time.

The Science Behind Viura’s Acidity

Viura’s acidity is a critical component of its overall character, and it plays a significant role in determining the wine’s aging potential. The acidity in Viura is characterized by a medium level of acidity, which is stable over time.

The Evolution of Wine: A Journey Through Time

Wine has been a staple in human civilization for thousands of years, with its origins dating back to ancient civilizations in the Mediterranean. From the earliest recorded wine production in 6000 BC to the present day, wine has undergone significant transformations, shaped by various factors such as climate, culture, and technology.

Terroir’s Impact on Wine Flavor and Quality.

The Importance of Terroir in Winemaking

Terroir is a French term that refers to the unique combination of environmental factors that affect the flavor and quality of grapes. In the context of winemaking, terroir plays a crucial role in shaping the characteristics of a wine. The diversity of terroir in a vineyard can result in a wide range of flavors and aromas, making each wine unique and reflective of its specific terroir.

Factors Affecting Terroir

Several factors contribute to the diversity of terroir in a vineyard. These include:

  • Climate: Temperature, sunlight, and precipitation patterns all impact the flavor and quality of grapes. Soil: The type and composition of soil can affect the nutrient availability and water-holding capacity of the vineyard. Topography: The slope, aspect, and elevation of the vineyard can influence the amount of sunlight and wind exposure. Altitude: The higher the altitude, the cooler the temperature and the slower the ripening process. ### The Impact of Terroir on Viura Wines
  • The Impact of Terroir on Viura Wines

    Viura is a white grape variety commonly used in Rioja, Spain. The unique terroir of the winery’s vineyards contributes to the distinct flavor profile of their Viura wines. The diversity of terroir in the vineyards allows the winemaker to craft wines that showcase the specific characteristics of each terroir. Climate: The warm and dry climate of the Rioja region contributes to the ripening of the Viura grapes, resulting in a rich and full-bodied wine.

    The Rise of the “Old” Rioja

    In recent years, there has been a growing interest in wines that are meant to age, rather than being consumed young. This shift in consumer preference is driven by a desire for complexity and depth in the wines. Rioja, a region in northern Spain, has long been known for its Tempranillo-based wines. However, many of these wines were traditionally released early, often within a year or two of harvest. Characteristics of “Old” Rioja

  • Aged for a minimum of 2 years
  • Typically released 5-10 years after harvest
  • Often aged in oak barrels for extended periods
  • May undergo a process called “malolactic fermentation”
  • The Benefits of Aging

    Aging is a process that allows the wine to develop its full potential. During this time, the wine undergoes a series of chemical reactions that break down the tannins and soften the flavors.

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