Miguel Merino Rioja Alta Blanco

From the steep limestone vineyards around Briones in Rioja Alta comes a white with rare clarity and precision. Grapes of Viura and Garnacha Blanca (70/30 in 2023) are hand-harvested at dawn, pressed gently, and fermented in 500 L French oak barrels—then aged on fine lees for ten months to build texture while preserving lift.
The result is ethereal yet substantial: pale lemon gold, with aromas of lime-zest, white flowers, and crushed chalk. On the palate, bright citrus, green apple, and subtle pear skin unfold over a saline, mineral backbone. Mid-weight and beautifully balanced (13.5 % abv, pH ~3.2), this is Rioja blanc with both energy and refinement.