2020 BODEGAS VALDEMAR RIOJA BLANCO, RIOJA, SPAIN

On the southside of Walla Walla, WA, sits a beautiful Spanish winery, tucked into the hillside facing the Rocky Mountains to the East. This is the home of the Valdemar Estates Winery, the American headquarters of the Valdemar family, with the original still in operation in Rioja, Spain. What makes the Washington grown Valdemar wines so special, is their Spanish influence on the delicious grapes grown in Walla Walla Valley and the neighboring appellations. The tasting room offers selections from both Valdemar Estates as well as Bodegas Valdemar, their Spanish made label. I was particularly drawn to the 2020 Rioja Blanco, as you don’t see many white Riojas on the shelf. This crisp and fresh wine is made of 70% Viura, 10% Verdejo, 10% Malvasía, and the thing that makes it most rare, 10% Tempranillo Blanco. Valdemar has cultivated a rare albino strain of the tempranillo grape and uses it to craft this delicious blend. Aromas of white flowers, herbs, pear, and melon on the nose and flavors of citrus fruit such as lemon and nectarine. Pairs well with seafood, veggies, or even a fresh salad!