2024 Ostatu Rioja Blanco

Taste: In the glass, the wine is pale lemon with a clean, mineral nose marked by chalk, flint, and white flowers. Subtle stone fruit and orchard notes—pear, green apple, and a touch of melon—come through with air. On the palate, it’s linear and vibrant, with bright acidity, a slight herbal edge, and a core of citrus that balances freshness with subtle depth. There’s tension and salinity here, a mountain wine in its energy and focus, yet accessible and easy to enjoy.

Pairing: Pair this with food that complements acidity and minerality. It's excellent with white fish, raw or grilled, crab cakes, grilled or sautéed shrimp, but also holds up to more decadent flavors like cured meats, cheeses, and olive oil–dressed vegetables. 

About: Ostatu is based in the village of Samaniego in Rioja Alavesa, the Basque zone of the Rioja DOCa known for its altitude, limestone-rich soils, and cool microclimate. The winery is run by the Sáenz de Samaniego family, who have farmed the region for centuries and bottled under their own label since 1970. Their vineyards—36 hectares broken into over 50 micro-plots—lie between 450 and 640 meters above sea level, primarily on stony calcareous clay. These are old vines, many between 30 and 80 years old, certified organic, and entirely dry-farmed. Ostatu has also committed to carbon neutrality through green energy use and reforestation projects, aligning their sustainability practices with the clarity of their wines.