Wines Rioja Bodegas Hacienda López de Haro - The Society's Exhibition Blanco Reserva - 2018

The 2018 Bodegas Hacienda López de Haro “Society’s Exhibition Blanco Reserva” is a white wine from the celebrated Rioja region in Spain. Whilst precise details on the grape blend are not provided, Rioja white Reserva wines typically showcase a careful selection of indigenous varieties, most notably Viura (also known as Macabeo), potentially complemented by grapes such as Garnacha Blanca and Malvasía Riojana. As a Reserva, this wine would have benefitted from extended ageing—often in both oak barrels and in bottle—imparting subtle complexity and a restrained, elegant character. Wines of this style are often marked by gentle aromas of citrus, orchard fruit and white flowers, alongside creamy notes, hints of vanilla, and a touch of nuttiness or honeyed character from the maturation process.

Rioja is a region defined by its rolling vineyards and a unique climate, shaped by the confluence of Atlantic and Mediterranean influences. The soils here vary from limestone and chalk to red clay, each contributing distinctly to the purity and freshness of the wines. Historically known for its reds, Rioja’s whites have surged in quality and popularity, with Reserva bottlings such as this expressing not just fruit freshness but also layered complexity from expert vinification and careful ageing. Rioja’s winemaking heritage is rich, with traditions stretching back centuries, and white Reservas represent some of the region’s most elegant and age-worthy offerings.

This style of white Rioja is particularly versatile at the table. Its freshness and textural roundness pair beautifully with classic Spanish dishes such as bacalao a la riojana (salt cod with peppers and tomato sauce), roasted chicken with saffron rice, or gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns). Outside Spanish cuisine, it works well with herb-roast poultry, creamy seafood gratins, or mild cheeses.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at a cool but not icy temperature, ideally between 10-12°C. Allow the wine a few minutes in the glass to open up and reveal its nuanced bouquet and complex palate.