Marques de Riscal (Spain) Rueda Blanco 2004
This is a new vintage of a great value, fresh and clean as a whistle white from Rioja maestros Marques de Riscal, but made in the white wine sanctuary of Rueda. Blindfolded, most people taking thier first sniff or sip of this wine would swear it was Sauvignon Blanc, with it gooseberry and nettle verve set over tropical mango and passion fruit aromas. But in fact this is a blend of two native grapes, about 85% Verdejo and 15% Viura. Onto the palate it is mouthfilling and full, but has real crispness and crunch, with mouth-watering citrus fruit and plenty of acidity leading to a dry, food-friendly finish. I had this with a creamy risotto, enriched with creme fraiche and roasted peppers and it was an excellent match. £5.99 Sainsbury’s
