2024 Monte Real Rioja Blanco, Bodegas Riojanas

We loved this. Opens with a floral, sherbetty aroma and a zippy citrus character. Then more exotic fruits appear with notes of white peach, pear, quince and pineapple. Luscious on the palate with a creamy, almost honeyed ripeness and texture. Some exotic spice and a little smokiness too from its barrel-fermentation – all held perfectly in check with a bright limey freshness. A really characterful white Rioja, and a very drinkable wine indeed.