Trascuevas 2021

High-quality white wines from Rioja are on the rise again. The Trascuevas is a great example of this development. It is the only white wine in the Artuke winery's portfolio, and 2021 is only the second vintage. It consists of 90 percent Viura and contains small portions of Malvasia Riojana and Palomino Fino. The grapes come from different vineyards in the Rioja Alavesa and from vines that are over 50 years old in bush training. The wine is matured for 10 months in 500-litre French oak barrels. Part of the wine is also aged in concrete tanks.

Light yellow

The nose has a predominantly floral character and is complex overall. Besides white flowers, there are notes of apple and brioche, which are typical for Viura matured in barrels and on the fine lees. The bouquet has a nice balance and intensity.

The attack on the palate is punchy and spicy, and the Trascuevas 2021 feels silky and creamy in the mouth. The smooth texture envelops the rich body and gives the wine a lot of elegance. The wood is integrated in an excellent way, making the wine more complex but not masking it. Particularly animating is the super juicy finish, which turns out very citrusy and crisp with notes of red grapefruit. This fine tartness and the juicy freshness make you want to take the next sip. All in all, Trascuevas 2021 is a great blend of new and traditional Rioja style. The former focuses on freshness and drinkability, the latter on micro-oxidation and complexity through barrel ageing.