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White wine | Rioja, Spain
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The Roda I Blanco is a landmark release from Bodegas Roda, one of Rioja’s most prestigious and innovative estates. Long celebrated for their iconic red wines, the winery spent years of research and experimentation before unveiling this extraordinary white. It is a true 'gastronomic' wine, crafted from a field blend of old-vine Viura—the backbone of the wine—supplemented by traditional Malvasía de Rioja and Garnacha Blanca. These vines are sourced from the highest, most mineral-rich plots around Haro, where poor, stony soils force the vines to struggle, resulting in grapes of incredible concentration and complexity.
What sets Roda I Blanco apart is its sophisticated winemaking process. The grapes are hand-harvested and fermented in French oak vats, followed by an 18-month maturation period in French oak 'bocoys' (700-liter barrels). This is followed by an additional 18 months of rest in the bottle before release. This extended patience ensures the wine is perfectly integrated upon release, offering a rare combination of power, weight, and vibrant freshness.
On the nose, it is intensely aromatic, leading with notes of ripe peach, quince, and grapefruit, balanced by delicate elderflower and a distinct, chalky mineral edge. On the palate, it is full-bodied and creamy, yet it maintains a remarkable tension and acidity that prevents it from feeling heavy. The finish is persistent, characterized by a sophisticated 'grapefruit-bitter' snap and lingering limestone notes. This is a wine that defies the common perception of white Rioja, moving away from oxidative styles toward a modern, precise, and deeply layered profile.
This wine is a perfect partner for high-end dining. Its structure and creaminess make it an ideal match for roasted poultry, such as turkey or free-range chicken with herbs, as well as complex seafood dishes, grilled scallops, or even creamy risottos with wild mushrooms. It is a testament to the vision of Bodegas Roda and serves as a magnificent centerpiece for any serious wine collection. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for another 5–8 years to allow for further tertiary development, the Roda I Blanco is a profound experience that highlights the immense potential of Rioja’s white varieties.
A total departure from my usual cherry reds! The creamy texture and chalky mineral snap are exhilarating. So precise and complex—perfectly paired with a wild mushroom risotto. A true white discovery.