Wines Rioja Bodegas Gran Cerdo

Viniou Reviews

Gran Cerdo Blanco is a captivating non-vintage white wine crafted by Bodegas Gran Cerdo in the celebrated region of Rioja, Spain. This wine is typically composed of a blend of native varieties, often with a dominant proportion of Viura (known elsewhere as Macabeo), sometimes accompanied by touches of Malvasía or Garnacha Blanca, depending on the vintage and the stylistic choices of the winemaker. The focus at Gran Cerdo is on minimal intervention, allowing the character of the grapes and terroir to shine. Fermentation generally takes place in stainless steel to preserve freshness and aromatic purity, yielding a crisp, approachable wine with a vibrant personality.

Rioja, traditionally famed for its reds, also produces whites of significant character. The region lies in northern Spain, benefiting from a unique confluence of Atlantic and Mediterranean climates. This results in warm days and cool nights, ideal for preserving acidity and developing complexity in white grapes. The soils, a mix of clay, limestone, and iron, impart a subtly mineral quality to the wines. Rioja’s history is rooted in a tradition of careful viticulture, though in recent years, a new generation of winemakers—as seen at Bodegas Gran Cerdo—has fostered a movement towards expressive, terroir-driven whites.

As for food pairing, Gran Cerdo Blanco’s lively acidity and floral-citrus notes make it immensely versatile at the table. It partners beautifully with classic Spanish tapas such as gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns), boquerones en vinagre (marinated anchovies), or tortilla de patata (Spanish omelette). As a dry white, it also complements seafood paella, grilled white fish, fresh goat’s cheeses, and even light Asian-inspired dishes. Its crisp profile and subtle minerality also make it a refreshing accompaniment to vegetarian dishes featuring Mediterranean herbs and seasonal vegetables.

For optimal enjoyment, serve Gran Cerdo Blanco well-chilled, between 8 and 10°C. This temperature enhances its aromatic clarity while maintaining a crisp, refreshing structure. Enjoy within two to three years of bottling to appreciate its youthful vibrancy and zesty charm.