Wine of the week: Monte Real Reserva Tempranillo Blanco

db's 'Wine of the week' is a Master medal-winning "very classic" white Rioja from Bodegas Riojanas. Speaking with db for this year's Master Winemaker guide, Bodegas Riojanas technical director Emilio Sojo Nalda shared that he had "no doubt" about wanting to pursue a career in wine before he grew up. However, although he was certain of the path he wanted to take, he also noted: "In the world of wine, nothing should be taken for granted. When you think that everything is going smoothly, suddenly something happens that makes you realise that you should never sit back and relax." Asked what he would have on his back label if he were a wine, Nalda said: "Never drink this wine alone: enjoy it in good company."

Bodegas Riojanas Monte Real Reserva Tempranillo Blanco Colección Larrendant 2020

 

• Producer: Bodegas Riojanas
• Region: Rioja, Spain
• Grape variety: 100% Tempranillo Blanco
• ABV: 13%
• Approximate retail price: £75
• Medal: Master – Rioja Masters 2024

Pale gold in colour, this has a clean, fresh and yet intense nose of butterscotch, white stone fruit, vanilla, hazelnut and a hint of white blossom. The palate is taut and elegant, with bright acid – complex, but still lively. The finish is long and elegant. An exciting, alive and very classic white Rioja. (Siobhan Turner MW)