Lovely Rioja

After phylloxera devastated French vineyards in 1868, many French growers migrated into the Rioja region of Spain, recognizing the potential of the chalky soils. The advanced wine-making techniques that they brought with them combined with the increased exports of Spanish wine throughout Europe due to the shortages of the fabled French vineyards, brought almost instant recognition to the potential of Spanish wines.

Rioja is one of only two Spanish wine regions that carry the D.O.C. (Denominacion de Origen Califcada) status indicating the highest quality wines. It has long been considered Spain’s most prestigious wine region, with notables such as Ernest Hemingway withstanding the arduous journey through the Cantabrian mountains just to sample the local wines. It runs 75 miles along both banks of the Ebro river in the remote interior of Northern Spain with three sub-regions: Rioja Alta, Rioja Baja and Rioja Alavesa. Although the majority of wines exported from these areas are red wines made from the tempranillo grape, many outstanding, versatile whites are also produced. I chose the Bodegas Ostatu Rioja Blanco paired with baked scallops with Vidalia onions and Serrano ham for this weekend's dinner because I thought it would be fun to try something a little more off the beaten path. But rest assured, I am not looking for something different just for the sake of being different...everytime I have poured this wine at my house, everyone is looking for another bottle!

Bodegas Ostatu is a true family run winery with all of their vineyards planted, pruned and taken care of by the family ensuring quality. They practice sustainable management within their vineyards thus producing very low yields from the highest quality grapes. The grapes for this wine come from the highest and oldest vineyards within the estate located in the Rioja Alavesa area, which is a bit cooler than the others because it is located further northwest and at a higher altitude. This is perfect for producing grapes that lead to clean, crisp white wines.

Viura, which is known as Macabeo in other Spanish regions including those that produce their famous cavas, produces wines with wonderful, full aromas, mild fruit flavors and good acidity. They are a perfect match for the cuisine of the area which utilizes straight-forward cooking techniques and fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Until tomorrow....