Marqués de Cáceres Antea: Elevating White Rioja to New Heights

Discover the Essence of Marqués de Cáceres Antea

Marqués de Cáceres Antea is a testament to the evolution of white Rioja. As a limited-edition masterpiece, it reflects the unwavering commitment to quality and innovation that Marqués de Cáceres has championed since its founding in 1970. This barrel-fermented white wine captivates with its brilliant straw-yellow color, indicating both freshness and youth.

A Legacy of Craftsmanship

The winery, established by Enrique Forner, is celebrated for pioneering modern Rioja winemaking, integrating French oak aging and meticulous vineyard management. Antea embodies this legacy, crafted from old vine Viura and the indigenous Tempranillo Blanco. This blend not only enhances the wine’s structure and elegance but also contributes to its refined acidity and impressive aging capability.

Intricate Winemaking Process

Each grape variety in Antea is vinified separately, undergoing processes like cold maceration to preserve freshness, and gentle pressing to avoid harsh phenolics. Fermentation occurs on fine lees in new French oak barrels. Frequent bâtonnage—stirring of lees—is conducted to enrich the wine’s texture and complexity. The result is a harmonious balance where oak enhances the fruit, rather than overpowering it.

Tasting Experience

On the nose, Antea enchants with fresh aromas of grapefruit, apple, white peach, and pear, complemented by hints of white flowers, spice, and a sophisticated toasted note from its oak barrel fermentation. As you taste, its luscious texture fills the palate, offering a symphony of intense fruit flavors, elegant spice, and a subtle integration of vanilla and oak. The finish is long and satisfying, characterized by its fresh yet vivacious acidity, ensuring excellent aging potential.

Food Pairing Excellence

Ideal as an aperitif, Marqués de Cáceres Antea pairs beautifully with seafood, fish in white cream sauces, shellfish, and grilled poultry, particularly those dressed with creamy or mild cheese sauces. Its fresh complexity and nuanced flavors make it versatile for many refined dishes.

Awards and Accolades

The excellence of Antea has not gone unnoticed. Consistently scoring high marks from acclaimed wine critics, it boasts accolades such as 92 points from James Suckling and Tim Atkin’s 91 points special mention. These recognitions underscore Antea as a paragon of modern white Rioja, appealing to discerning collectors and aficionados globally.

Sustainability and Future Prospects

Committed to sustainable practices, Marqués de Cáceres utilizes manual harvesting and vineyard management with an emphasis on eco-friendly production. Additionally, Antea is suitable for vegans, increasing its appeal to those seeking environmentally conscious and diverse wine selections.

Conclusion

Marqués de Cáceres Antea stands out as a sophisticated choice for those looking to explore the depths of white Rioja. Its limited availability, combined with a rich flavor profile and robust critical acclaim, ensures it is a worthy addition to any connoisseur’s collection, promising a journey of gourmet discovery with every sip.