2008 Rioja Blanco, Finca Allende

There’s no doubting Rioja signals red for Spanish wine, but tipplers mustn’t forget the virtues of a good, rich white Rioja such as Finca Allende Rioja Blanco 2008.

The label may not get the pulses racing, but this glorious straw-yellow white made from a harmonious blend of malvasia and viura is quite delightful. Buttery and tropical, it triumphs on the palate with the slightest sherry profile and good acidity on the long finish. Good with food, Allende complements flaky fish and white meats.
(Raise a glass to the best Spanish wine, Elmbridge Guardian, 7 April 2012)

The gregarious Miguel Angel de Gregorio has always put a lot of effort into his white wine; in the way that some see white Hermitage as every bit as important as its red counterpart, he feels that white Rioja is a key part of Rioja's heritage and identity. Paradoxically, however, his method of expressing this is to make a modern style,using new French oak of quite tight grained provenance.

With a blend divided equally between Malvasia and Viura, the 2008 has attractive tropical notes on the nose, backed up by hints of guava, fennel and lemon grass. The palate is generously textured, but not too plump; its oak buttress discrete but solid. The finish is creamy and rather indulgent. A wine that will accompany a variety of dishes, including lighter meats.
(Simon Field MW, BBR Buyer)