Bodegas Nivarius - Rioja Blanco 2024

Situated in the cool, high-altitude foothills of the Sierra de Moncalvillo in Rioja, Bodegas Nivarius is one of the region's few wineries devoted exclusively to white wine. Established in 2010, the estate farms 61 hectares of vineyards in the Iregua Valley, where elevations exceeding 800 meters, significant diurnal temperature swings and a mix of clay, limestone, iron-rich soils and sand preserve freshness and aromatic intensity. Among Rioja's leading growers of the indigenous Tempranillo Blanco, Nivarius also cultivates Maturana Blanca, Viura, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Malvasía while championing the recovery of Rioja's historic white varieties. Every aspect of the winery — from gentle pneumatic pressing to extended lees aging — is designed to protect purity, texture and mineral expression, producing whites that redefine what Rioja can achieve.

Nivarius’ 2024 Rioja Blanco — crafted from 100% Tempranillo Blanco — is a vibrant and terroir-driven, showcasing the remarkable freshness that high-elevation Rioja can deliver. Aromas of ripe pear, white peach and crisp apple mingle with bright lemon zest, white blossoms and a distinctive flinty minerality. Four months of lees aging lend a subtle creaminess and breadth without sacrificing the wine's lively acidity. The palate is energetic yet beautifully textured, balancing juicy orchard fruit with citrus and saline notes before finishing long, clean and mineral-driven with lingering hints of stone fruit and wet stone. No brainer pairing for anything from the sea… oysters, ceviche, grilled shrimp, roasted cod or seafood paella. Also wonderful with soft cheeses, grilled vegetables or lemon-herb chicken.