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.
Food Matching
Simple grilled fish and shellfish, garlicky prawns or grilled squid.
Viura 70%
Malvasia 20%
Torrontés, Tempranillo Blanco and Garnacha Blanca 10%
14%
Closure
Natural cork
Colour
White
Still wine
Case Size
12 x 75cl