Country: Spain

Region: Rioja

Grapes: Viura

Vintage: 2020

ABV: 12.5%

Bottle size: 75cl

Viticulture: Sustainable

Winemaking: Aged in predominantly 2nd use American oak

Vegan?: Yes

White Rioja isn't something you see too frequently, but it will knock your socks off! This spectacular wine is 100% Viura, an indigenous Spanish and southern French white grape that's a lot like Chardonnay. Indeed, this knocks heads with some of the best California Chardonnays, with an oaky, citrusy palate that is filled with flavors of pineapple, butter, and creme brulee. Akemi was designed to pair with sushi, but it's also great with light meats and creamy dishes. 

About the producer: Bodegas Ontañón is a 5th generation family-owned and run winery in Rioja Baja (now Rioja Oriental). Here Raquel, Rubén and Maria Pérez Cuevas continue their father Gabriel's work to develop Bodegas Ontañón into one of the most highly-regarded wineries in Rioja. Ontañón has vast swathes of vineyard in this part of Rioja. Whilst wine production in the region is typically very dependent on contracts with grape growers, the Pérez Cuevas family has seen fit to invest heavily in the purchase of its own land and vines. Its 250ha is a testament to the importance it places on controlling grape quality.