Who makes it?

Hacienda Lopez de Haro is another of the Vintae brands from around Spain.  This time it is a Riojan white made from old Viura vines from vineyards around the area of San Vincente de la Sonsierra (Rioja Alta). Interestingly, this area has pre-historic wine presses dating to more than two thousand years old making this a significant historical winemaking region. 

Viura is the name for the Macabeo grape which is one of the dominant grapes used in the making Cava. Two other brands under the Vintae umbrella, is Bardos and Matsu amongst others.

How they make it?

After barrel ferment, this white has been aged in oak for 3 months adding weight and a soft, spicy cinnamon note to the fruit. However, there is still a lively vivacity along the silky, slinky palate.

What does it taste like?

The old vine fruit showcases drippingly ripe stonefruit with nuances of tropical ripeness and a zesty citrus. This has been enhanced with that spice from that short time in oak and a pastry spice from lees contact which has also added some palate weight. This vintage has a light tannin grip although it doesn’t distract from the long spicy stonefruit finish. It is also a wine that does need some time to open up before drinking.

Drink Hacienda Lopez de Haro with something like a cheese souffle, or roulade filled with lardons, chives and sour cream. Or alternatively, a creamy pasta.

Cheese?

With that acid, you could still get away with eating a soft rind cheese such as Brie or Camembert with this wine.

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Quickie review « A spicy versatile white where the oak is subtle and gently supports the fruit while retaining its crispness. »

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Country of Origin: Rioja DOCa, Spain
Tasting Date: November 2020
Price:  UK £10 | €6 |USD$ 10 
Drink: now 
Needs food: no
Source: purchase

Click here to read more about white Rioja wines – Getting to know Rioja’s white side.

See Hacienda Lopez de Haro & Vintae for more.