2022 RIOJA BLANCO, Valdebarón Bodegas Ondarre. Spain

Based in the Oriental district of Rioja in the village of Viana. Bodegas Ondarre was founded in 1985. Since their inception they have built a network of grower contracts and long-term supply relationships which has allowed then to develop and maintain a high quality and diverse range of styles.

2022 was a hot vintage where attaining ripeness was not an issue. The main issues were the heat and drought conditions and regulating the growth cycle of the vine. Due to the cooler, higher altitude sourcing, and the age of the vines with deep roots which could tap into the water table, the grapes arrived in a wonderful condition and with good levels of acidity for the year.

This wine is ready to drink now but can be kept and enjoyed over the next 2-3 years when it should develop more nutty tones. Serve chilled but not too cold and could even decant for ½ hour before serving.