Casa La Rad Blanco Selección, a wine from Casa La Rad in Rioja Oriental

Casa La Rad Blanco

Selección

2024 · Rioja DOCa

Casa La Rad Blanco Selección reflects our pursuit of precision and depth in the white varietals on our estate, all grown in high-altitude vineyards within the Ocón Valley. Crafted from a careful selection of plots and grape varieties, this wine clearly expresses the freshness, texture, and mineral character of possible at high elevations in Rioja Oriental.

In short, it is the definitive white wine interpretation of the Casa La Rad estate.

Grape Varieties:‍ ‍

60% Chardonnay, 20% Malvasía, 20% Viura

Aging: The wine ages for approximately eighteen months on its fine lees in 500-liter French oak barrels, some of which are new, developing weight, balance, and aromatic depth.

Altitude: Between 535 and 640 meters | 1,750 - 2,100 feet

Average age of vines: 30 years

Origin:

Vineyard profile: The grapes come from various plots located in the highest areas of the Casa La Rad estate in Rioja Oriental, grown at altitudes ranging from approximately 525 to 675 meters and surrounded by a natural environment.

On these slopes of the Ocón Valley, clay and limestone soils alternate with stonier areas, which contribute structure, freshness, and complexity to the wine.

This varietal selection combines Chardonnay grown in alluvial soils with Viura and Malvasía from old vines trained "en vaso" in the highest parts of the estate.

Winemaking and Aging:

Winemaking: Harvesting is done manually, and the grapes are carefully selected before direct pressing and racking of the must. Fermentation is carried out with selected yeasts for approximately twelve days at a controlled temperature.

A portion of the wine ferments in barrels and undergoes malolactic fermentation, contributing texture and complexity.

Tasting Notes:

With a brilliant golden color and exceptional aromatic purity, Casa La Rad Blanco Selección shows notes of ripe white fruit, citrus, and delicate mineral undertones. Aging on the lees lends it a creamy texture and remarkable fullness on the palate, balanced by a natural freshness that lingers in its elegant finish.

Additional Comments:

Decanter (2021 vintage): “There's a nice zesty grip lining the fleshy, orchard fruit core. The twist of clementine zest adds verve to the pear, Royal Gala apple and melon. It has subtle weight on the mid-palate and lively acid drive. Optimal drinking period: 2025 to 2028.” (Ines Salpico, 90 points)

Production: 6,000 bottles