Abel & Maite Mendoza Monge Rioja White 2024

Abel and Maite Mendoza are one of Rioja's most respected winemaking couples, based in San Vicente de la Sonsierra. Since 1988, they have been organically farming 40 small plots, spread across the border region of Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa. Abel is responsible for the vineyard work, Maite for the winemaking. Their philosophy is Burgundian: each plot separate, each grape variety as a portrait of the place. This Rioja Blanco, also known as '5V', is a blend of five indigenous white grape varieties: Viura, Malvasía, Tempranillo Blanco, Torrontés, and Garnacha Blanca. All five are fermented and aged for five months in French oak with regular bâtonnage.

Description: Expressive and complex, with aromas of white flowers, ripe yellow fruit, smoke, and a balsamic note. Full-bodied with beautifully integrated wood, fresh acidity, and a long, juicy finish.

Pairs well with: Grilled seafood, creamy pastas, herb-roasted chicken, or a hearty fish soup.

Fun fact: Abel and Maite deliberately do not use classification terms such as Crianza or Reserva on their labels — just like in Burgundy, they let terroir and grape speak for themselves.