A super modern take on a classic style.  Juicy, fruity white Rioja, which is open and expressive – unoaked and hugely enjoyable right now.

The Sáenz de Samaniego family at Bodegas Ostatu, under the control of brothers Iñigo (winemaking) and Ernesto (vine growing),  have focused on producing a crisp, fruity and above all unoaked white Rioja.  It is produced from their highest altitude vineyards in Rioja Alavesa, at over 1,800 feet up, and grown on rocky, chalky soil.  The Viura (90% of the blend) and Malvasia (10%) vines (average age 55 years) achieve a slow ripeness which promotes plenty of fruit character whilst preserving all the acidity they are looking for, ensuring freshness and zest in the wines.
Alavesa is one of the two finest sub districts in Rioja, where the finest white (and red Tempanillo) vineyard areas are found.
Made from hand harvested grapes, the juice spends a short time under skin contact before fermentation in stainless steel at cool temperature, and then further months with lees contact prior to bottling.
Such is the delimited nature of the vineyard source only 4,500 cases are made on average each year.
This is a lively, zesty and lifted white Rioja! Highlighted with bright stone fruit favours and a subtle citric twist, and although medium bodied it is crisp, clean elegant and refreshing.  Very expressive and appetising. You could drink it on its own, but enough weight to go with straight forward fish (surprisingly good with grilled fresh sardines) and white meat dishes.  Also works nicely with Niçoise style salads.
£9.50 each