The 2009 Antano Viura is 100% Viura (also called Macabeo, which along with Xarel-lo and Parellada is the 3 grapes that go into Spanish Cava) sourced from old vine vineyards grown near the town of Labastida in Rioja, Spain. The alcohol content is 12.5%.
The color is pale sunshine yellow. The nose is apricot and lime, grapefruit and honey and the juice in a can of peaches. Very mellow flavor upfront, melon and lime, then tart citrus kicks in, lemon and tangerine. The mid-palate adds peach and dried pears. There is very light acidity and a long vivid finish.
The Antano Viura is a much needed change of pace from the usual Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, it has a different combination of flavors and mouthfeel, but is still accessible. Like all wines from Rioja, the Antano Viura is made to be paired with food, fish and shell fish dishes would do well here and the Antano would also do well accompanying Thanksgiving dinner.
