rating B+

standout first single-vineyard sparkling wine in Rioja

about going back to 1889 and now into the fifth generation, Valdemar have not been afraid to experiment while drawing on tradition: they pioneered replantings of both Graciano and Maturana Blanca, and have a tasting room in Woodinville, Washington. Sparkling wine is the new project; first released in 2022, “Finca Alto Cantabria” is also the first bubbles in Rioja to be classified as Viñedo Singular—an approved single-vineyard wine.

wines tasted

“Finca Alto Cantabria” Gran Añada 2020 ($32)

100% Viura. Spends three years on the lees to qualify for the Gran Añada designation, aged in a combination of stainless steel and barrels before second fermentation in bottle. A Brut Nature, so completely dry. A very fresh, bright wine, the green fruit aromas characteristic of Viura, and not too leesy. Just 1,500 bottles made.

website https://valdemarfamily.com/en/

email enoturismo@valdemar.es

phone +34 663 334 535

address Camino Viejo nº 24, Oyón, Álava