2017 Nivarius La Nevera Maturana Blanca Rioja [TA96][WE95][WA93]

Producer: Nivarius 
Region: Rioja, Spain 
Varietal: Maturana Blanca 
Year: 2017 

Tim Atkin, 96 Points 

"Finca La Nevera is one of the highest vineyards in Rioja, situated at a pretty chilly 800 metres in Nalda. Fermented in large wooden vats before ageing in stainless steel tanks for a further three years, this has the energy and vivacity of an amazing site. A sublime expression of Maturana Blanca, it has chiselled acidity, stony salty reduction, tangy citrus fruit and hints of aniseed and white pepper. 2022-30." 

Wine Enthusiast, 95 Points 

"This wine is made with one of the oldest known but most obscure varieties in Rioja, Maturana Blanca. It offers aromas of green pear, pineapple, white chocolate and a touch of aniseed. It is full on the palate and features clementine, lemon-zest, green-apple and vanilla flavors awash in bold acidity and a palpable sense of stoniness. Notes of fennel pollen and seawater appear on the pleasing finish." 

Wine Advocate, 93 Points 

"The 2017 Finca La Nevera is now 100% Maturana Blanca planted at their highest-altitude vineyard at 850 meters. It fermented in 3,500-liter oak casks, where it matured for three years, the first year with the full lees. It's aromatic, floral and delicate with integrated oak and a fresh mouthfeel, moderate ripeness and 13.5% alcohol with the great freshness and acidity of the variety. It's tasty and undeveloped, clean and vibrant, quite surprising for a 2017. 9,700 bottles were filled in March 2021." 

Alcohol: 13.5% 

*Price and availability in store may vary. Vintage date may differ from pictured.