Wines Rioja Madam - 2024

Viniou Reviews

Madam Rioja 2024 is an elegant Spanish white that captures the spirit of modern Rioja winemaking. Crafted predominantly from the Viura grape, also known locally as Macabeo, this dry white wine is marked by its freshness and subtle aromatic complexity. The 2024 vintage benefits from a combination of early harvests and gentle vinification in temperature-controlled stainless steel, preserving the crisp, lively character of the fruit and ensuring a clean, precise expression. The wine typically reveals delicate notes of white blossom, crunchy apple, pear, and hints of citrus, with a discreet minerality on the palate and a refreshing finish.

The Rioja region is famed not just for its iconic reds but also for its expressive, often underappreciated, whites. Nestled along the Ebro River in northern Spain, Rioja enjoys a confluence of Atlantic, Mediterranean, and continental influences. This unique climatic mix grants the vineyards warm days ideal for ripening and cool nights that retain acidity in the grapes. The soils are varied, ranging from calcareous clay to limestone, contributing finesse and structure to the wines. White Rioja has seen a remarkable resurgence in recent years, thanks to renewed interest in native grapes and modern techniques, making wines like Madam Rioja 2024 an emblem of the region’s vitality.

For food pairings, this dry white Rioja excels with an array of dishes. Its brightness and zesty character match brilliantly with seafood—think grilled prawns or seared scallops—while its subtle herbal notes enhance classic Spanish tapas such as salt-cod croquettes and marinated anchovies. Gentle cheeses like Manchego or Idiazabal, roast chicken with herbs, or a vegetable paella are also fine accompaniments, allowing the wine’s purity to shine.

For optimal enjoyment, serve Madam Rioja 2024 well chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. This temperature accentuates its aromatic freshness and crisp flavours. Decanting is unnecessary for such a youthful white, but using a tulip-shaped glass will help capture its subtle bouquet and refreshing finish.