Eguren Ugarte Rioja Blanco Crianza 2021

Description

Eguren Ugarte Rioja Blanco Crianza 2021 is as good as the 2020 vintage which I also have in stock. It is pretty consistent year on year. The 2021 vintage in Rioja was characterized by a mild spring and a warm dry summer with very timely rains at harvest time. This combination allowed the grapes to achieve optimal ripeness meaning concentrated flavours and to retain acidity. This balance between acidity and juicy fruit flavours is evident in this wine which is fresh, complex and aromatic.

I have written before about how white Rioja can tend towards bitterness and sometimes one-dimensional taste especially if they are produced as they often are from the neutral Viura or Macabeo grape. Other poorly-made examples can be overly oaked or oxidized as winemakers try to compensate for the natural characteristics of the grape. However, Eguren Ugarte Rioja Blanco Crianza 2021 is a refreshing departure from the norm.

This is a modern-style white Rioja and a unique blend of 50% Tempranillo Blanco and 50% Sauvignon Blanc, an unusual combination that yields very tasty results. Tempranillo Blanco, a relatively rare grape discovered in the late 1980s, is a mutation of Rioja’s black Tempranillo. The vibrant flavours and zesty acidity in Eguren Ugarte Rioja Blanco Crianza 2021 pair beautifully with the crisp character of Sauvignon Blanc. After careful fermentation in stainless steel and aging on its lees in barrel, the resulting wine is medium-bodied with a smooth texture. On the palate, it shows a medley of citrus fruits and green apples, complemented by subtle tropical notes, hints of cloves, toasty undertones and delicate floral aromas. No bitterness to be seen – or tasted! Additionally, the Eguren Ugarte Rioja Blanco Crianza is sustainably produced, certified by the Basque organization HAZI, reflecting a commitment to environmentally friendly practices.