Gil Berzal Pequenas Parcelas Rioja Blanco

Bodega Gil Berzal farms small plots in and around Laguardia in Rioja Alavesa using organic viticulture with biodynamic and regenerative practices — an unusually rigorous approach for the region. The Pequeñas Parcelas Blanco is 90% Viura and 10% Malvasía, hand-harvested at low yields of 4,000 kg/ha from clay-calcareous soils. The must ferments with indigenous yeasts in concrete conical tanks at very low temperatures, then rests six months on its fine lees with batonnage before bottling unfined and unfiltered. The result is bright and straw-glinting, with wild flowers, aromatic herbs, and subtle exotic fruit on a palate of vivid acidity and real tension — a genuinely characterful Rioja Blanco from a tradition-minded, forward-thinking producer.

Food Pairing: Grilled langoustines, white asparagus, salt cod, Idiazábal cheese, light Basque pintxos.