Bodegas Amaren, Blanco, DOCa Rioja, Spain, 2023

Producer Profile

Jon Cañas (Luis Cañas’ grandson) is the imaginative winemaker behind Bodegas Amaren, having been given free rein to explore the character of Alavesa’s vineyards.

Jon aims to create a raw, modern interpretation of Rioja Alavesa by employing native yeasts for his ferments, and experimenting with concrete vessels and lees ageing to achieve expressive wines that are respectful of the ancient grape varieties he works with. The hierarchy of the Amaren range ignores the traditional classification of Rioja wines (Crianza, Reserva, Gran Reserva) and instead puts ‘Rioja Alavesa’ at the forefront of the label, thereby emphasizing the importance of place.

Viticulture

Vines average more Than 60 years in age and are situated around 545 meters above sea level. The plots are located locally around the winery – Samaniego and the north of Villabuena de Álava and Leza and consist of chalky soils poor in organic matter. Clusters and berries are small, with thick grape skins, high concentration and plenty of nuances.

Winemaking

Manual harvest in small crates. Bunches and berries are selected on a double sorting table where only the perfect fruit continues the process. 50% of the wine ferments in small concrete tanks and clay amphorae; the other 50% in barrels, bocoys, and foudres made of French and Austrian oak. Aged for 9 months in concrete, clay, and French and Austrian oak, with periodic bâtonnage to ensure optimal lees work.

Tasting Note

The nose shows great finesse, balance, and elegance, opening with marked minerality—saline, chalk, and wet stone. Citrus notes mingle with stone fruits such as peach and apricot, while subtle reductive hints add layers of complexity: touches of phosphorus, aniseed, fennel, bramble, and nettle. On the palate, the entry is silky and refined. Lively acidity drives length and persistence, carrying flavours of stone fruit, lychee, citrus, and aniseed. Herbal nuances—white flowers, nettle, bramble, and wild herbs—evoke the natural surroundings of the vineyard. A wine of purity and precision, it reflects both the character of its terroir and the elegance of the vintage.

Food Matching

Pasta, rice dishes, white meats with light sauces, roasted or grilled fish, seafood, roasted vegetables, foie-gras.