Abel Mendoza, Jarrarte Blanco, Rioja, Spain, 2021

Producer Profile

Modest, passionate and in no small part obsessive, Abel Mendoza and Maite Fernández have been making understated wines from their old vine vineyards, high up in the Cantabrian mountains near San Vicente de la Sonsierra since the late 80s.

His intimate knowledge of the diverse terroirs in this spectacular part of Rioja is enthralling, and every barrel tasted reveals startling provenance and true character of the vintage. Abel doesn’t make wines that flatter, they don’t speak of oak regimes, but rather of the quality of his fruit, expressed in its most honest form.

Viticulture

Coming from the old vineyards sited on uneven and varied terrain lying at the edge of the Ebro river, on soils composed of clay, marl and fine sandstones. They work organically and the harvest is carried out manually when the grapes have reached perfect ripeness.

Winemaking

Fermented in stainless steel tanks and left on the fine lees for a period of time.

Oak Ageing

No oak ageing

Tasting Note

This medley of Viura and Malvasía combined with a hint of Torrontés, Tempranillo Blanco and Garnacha Blanca showcases the pure style that can be achieved in the D.O.Ca. Rioja. Fresh, round, charming, aromatic with white fruit notes on the nose. Fresh, crisp in the mouth with hints of fennel and anise.