Sierra Cantabria, Rioja Blanco, 2022
Sierra Cantabria, Rioja Blanco, 2022
- 75cl
- 13.5%
- White Still
- Viura, Malvasía, Garnacha Blanca
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Optimal drinking window: 2026 - 2030
Full of zesty citrus fruits with luxurious nuances of honey and spring flowers, the Sierra Cantabria Rioja Blanco is a stunner.
A blend of Viura, Malvasia and Sauvignon Blanc, it's extremely fresh, vibrant and fruity, making it the perfect wine for seafood and tapas. The Sauvignon Blanc was vinified in oak barrels for two months, adding richness to the palate, yet there's still loads of bright fresh citrus and white fruits, making it super gluggable and a must have for the spring and summer.
Sierra Cantabria are undoubtedly one of Rioja's best kept secrets, head winemaker Marcos Eguren having been named Winemaker of the Year in Tim Atkin's Special Rioja Report 2023, yet their wines remain astonishingly good value and are a must have for any serious cellar.
This 2022 vintage is drinking beautifully now, with the primary citrus and white fruit flavours perfectly integrated with the subtle oak influence. Over the next two years, expect the wine to develop slightly more honeyed complexity whilst retaining its essential freshness. The acidity will keep it lively until 2028, though the vibrant fruit character will gradually soften. After 2030, the wine may lose some of its characteristic zing, though it will remain pleasant to drink.
Tasting Notes
AppearancePale gold with brilliant clarity and a hint of green at the rim.
NoseImmediately appealing with zesty lime and grapefruit leading the charge, followed by white peach and pear. There's a lovely floral lift of spring blossoms, whilst the oak treatment on the Sauvignon Blanc contributes subtle honey and vanilla nuances without overwhelming the fruit.
PalateFresh and vibrant with excellent balance between the citrus-driven acidity and creamy texture from brief oak contact. White stone fruits dominate the mid-palate, supported by mineral undertones and that characteristic Rioja Blanco richness. The Viura provides structure whilst Malvasia adds aromatic complexity.
FinishClean and refreshing with lingering citrus and a subtle honeyed sweetness that invites another sip.
Overall impressionA thoroughly modern take on white Rioja that manages to be both sophisticated and supremely gluggable.
Food Pairings
In Rioja, this would be the natural partner for pintxos and tapas, particularly those featuring seafood like gambas al ajillo or pulpo a la gallega. The wine's acidity cuts through the richness of Idiazábal cheese, whilst its honeyed notes complement jamón ibérico. Grilled fish, particularly merluza or besugo, would be traditional pairings, as would the region's excellent vegetables like piquillo peppers and artichokes.
We think this wine would go well with
Serve well-chilled at 8-10°C to preserve the wine's fresh, zesty character. No decanting required as this is designed for immediate enjoyment. Use a medium-sized white wine glass to concentrate the delicate aromatics whilst allowing the citrus freshness to shine. Best consumed within a few hours of opening to maintain its vibrant character.
The vineyards benefit from Rioja's continental climate, with hot summers moderated by cool nights that preserve acidity in the white varieties. The soils combine clay and limestone, providing good drainage whilst retaining enough moisture for consistent ripening. The altitude and northerly aspect help maintain the fresh, zesty character that defines Sierra Cantabria's white wines.
Rioja DOCa allows white wines from indigenous varieties like Viura and Malvasia, alongside international grapes such as Sauvignon Blanc. Whilst the region is globally famous for its reds, white Rioja has a long tradition and is experiencing a renaissance. The regulations permit oak ageing, which can add complexity whilst maintaining the fresh, food-friendly style that characterises modern white Rioja.
After a mild winter, 2022 threw everything it had at Rioja's vineyards: a punishing drought through summer followed by crucial September rains that arrived just when the grapes needed them most. The lack of water stressed the vines beautifully, concentrating flavours whilst keeping yields sensibly low, though producers had to work harder than usual to maintain freshness. Harvest began earlier than average, with many estates picking Tempranillo in the final weeks of September under ideal conditions.
What emerged is a vintage of real character — wines with more muscle and concentration than the preceding years, yet without the jammy heaviness that can plague hot vintages when the rains don't come. Tempranillo shows particular intensity, with deep colour and structured tannins that suggest these wines will reward patience, whilst Garnacha from higher altitude sites captured both power and perfume. The best 2022 Riojas are drinking well now if you fancy immediate pleasure, but we suspect the Crianzas and Reservas will hit their stride around 2027 and keep going for years beyond.
FAQs
What does this wine taste like?
Fresh and zesty with citrus fruits, honey richness, and spring flowers, balanced by bright acidity and subtle oak.
When should I drink this wine?
Perfect to drink now until 2030, whilst the citrus freshness and vibrant fruit character are at their peak.
What food pairs well with this wine?
Excellent with seafood, tapas, grilled fish, and Spanish cheeses. The acidity makes it perfect for shellfish and lighter dishes.
How should I serve this wine?
Serve well-chilled at 8-10°C in medium white wine glasses. No decanting needed - it's ready to enjoy straight from the bottle.
Is this wine worth cellaring?
This is designed for drinking rather than cellaring. Whilst it will hold well for 3-4 years, its greatest charm is its immediate freshness and vibrancy.
What makes Sierra Cantabria special?
Led by award-winning winemaker Marcos Eguren, they're one of Rioja's best-kept secrets, producing exceptional quality wines at remarkably fair prices.
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