Marqués de Cáceres Rioja Viura - A Classic Spanish White Wine

The Epitome of Freshness in a Bottle

Marqués de Cáceres Rioja Viura encapsulates the essence of Spain’s Rioja region, offering a symphony of flavors that beckon enthusiasts and novices alike to explore its vibrant notes. Born in the esteemed Marqués de Cáceres winery, this wine embodies a legacy built on a unique blend of tradition and modern innovation. Since its inception in 1970 by Enrique Forner, the winery has been a beacon of quality and accessibility in the world of wines, bringing the heart of La Rioja Alta to discerning palates worldwide.

A Journey Through the Rioja Alta

Nestled in the rolling landscapes of Northern Spain, the Rioja Alta region provides the perfect backdrop for the Viura grape to flourish. This area is renowned for its cooler climate and distinct clay-limestone soils, which are instrumental in producing wines with notable acidity and complex aromas. These conditions are ideal for the Viura grape, which is known for its aromatic subtlety and crisp fruit flavors, making Marqués de Cáceres Rioja Viura a paragon of regional authenticity.

The Viura Grape: A Kaleidoscope of Flavors

Predominantly planted in Rioja, the Viura grape—also known as Macabeo elsewhere—is the linchpin of this exquisite wine. It is celebrated for its ability to express floral nuances and a plethora of fruit tones, from pear and peach to the occasional hints of apricot. Carefully sourced from old vineyards, many of which are over three decades old, the grapes used in Marqués de Cáceres Rioja Viura are hand-picked with precision to capture the full potential of their flavor profiles.

Meticulous Viticulture and Winemaking

Crafting this wine is a labor of love, meticulously orchestrated from vineyard to bottle. The grapes, once harvested, undergo fermentation at controlled temperatures in stainless steel tanks—15 to 18 degrees Celsius to be exact—to conserve the primary aromas. Unburdened by oak aging, this wine is bottled young, typifying the “Joven” style, which prioritizes clarity and freshness, offering an unadulterated expression of the grape’s true character.

Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Freshness

Marqués de Cáceres Rioja Viura unfolds in the glass with a dazzling pale straw hue, edged with greenish highlights that whisper tales of youth and vivacity. The bouquet opens with a flood of white fruit aromas, where crisp pear mingles with the delicate nectar of peach and apricot. Citrus enthusiasts will relish in the zest of lemon and lime that punctuates the air, while floral undertones add a graceful finish to the aromatic journey.

On the palate, this wine is a celebration of balance and texture. The light body dances with a lively crispness, framed by an acid backbone that provides both structure and a clean, refreshing finish. Its flavor mirror reflects the nose, with rich pear and peach leading, gently lifted by a refreshing citrus notes, ensuring that the journey from nose to palate is seamless and rewarding.

Versatile and Delightful Food Pairings

This wine’s elegance and vibrant acidity make it a versatile partner for a variety of culinary creations. Marqués de Cáceres Rioja Viura is an excellent accompaniment to mild cheeses, fresh salads, and delicate seafood dishes. For those who enjoy lighter fare, pair it with subtly seasoned poultry to enhance the wine’s natural fruit notes and crisp finish.

Sustainability Meets Modernity

The Marqués de Cáceres brand is not only revered for its wines but also for its commitment to sustainable practices. Embracing modern techniques, the winery ensures a minimal environmental footprint, with careful manual harvesting and a focus on preserving nature’s balance throughout the winemaking process.

Whether you’re savoring it alone or complementing a fine meal, Marqués de Cáceres Rioja Viura offers a window into the world of modern Spanish winemaking—a sip above the ordinary, celebrating the union of past and future in every glass.