Altos R Pigeage Blanco Rioja 2023

From one of Spain’s most lauded wine cellars (600+ awards and counting!), situated high above the clouds in Rioja’s northern Rioja Alavesa sub-zone, Altos R Pigeage Blanco, is a seductive and rich, full-bodied white made with Viura, Rioja’s star white grape.

Altos de Rioja’s flagship ‘Pigeage’ wines are beloved by Spanish wine fans far and wide—and are always smash hits on the international awards circuit. Though the reds are the source of most fanfare, previous vintages of this particular white have earned multiple gold medals and 90+ point scores.

So what sets this bottle apart?

It starts with premium grapes, grown at high elevations and carefully harvested by hand when they're at their ripest. Back in the winery, head winemaker Amaia Amestoy is equally meticulous, destemming the grapes, pressing them quickly and fermenting the wine in barrel. It’s then aged a whole year on its lees, with regular stirring (which adds texture and body to the final wine) for the first eight months.

The result overflows with ripe orchard fruit aromas underpinned by subtle floral characters. The palate follows through with a wealth of smooth peach and citrus flavors edged by creamy vanilla.

Don’t hesitate to order: Limited cases were produced.