Montes Obarenes 2021

The stunning white 2021 Montes Obarenes has to be one of the most elegant whites from Rioja. It's very complete and does not lack ripeness (14.5% alcohol), freshness (3.45), complexity and nuance, elegance and persistence. It has a golden color, a captivating nose of herbs, flowers, spices and pollen, a seamless palate with vibrant and pristine flavors and great precision. It was produced with a blend of 60% Viura, 25% Tempranillo Blanco and 5% each Malvasía Riojana, Calagraño and Garnacha Blanca that fermented separately with indigenous yeasts and matured in French oak barrels for 18 months. 7,463 bottles produced. It was bottled in March 2023.

Quite a serious white with roasted almonds, macadamia nuts, fine lees, honey, waxed lemons and a touch of quince. Minerally yet supple on the palate, with a creamy texture. Dried herbs at the end. Viura, tempranillo blanca, garnacha blanca, malvasia and calagrano. Drink now or hold. - Zekun Shuai, Senior Editor.