HORIZONTE DE EXOPTO
WHITE 2021
DOCA RIOJA • SPAIN
"The new face of Rioja: a white wine of great purity, vibrant minerality, and timeless elegance."
Wines with Soul Philosophy
Horizonte de Exopto Blanco 2021 is an artisanal gem from Bodegas Exopto, led by Tom Puyaubert. This wine originates from small plots of old vines located on the slopes of the Sierra Cantabria mountains. Its unique blend of Viura, Garnacha Blanca, and Malvasía de Rioja is fermented and partially aged in concrete eggs and French oak barrels, seeking to capture the calcareous essence of the terroir. The result is a serious white wine, with volume and an electric freshness that positions it among Spain's great white wines.
1. Technical Details
Winery: Bodegas Exopto.
Origin: Ábalos and San Vicente, Rioja Alta, Spain.
Varietals: Viura, Garnacha Blanca and Malvasía.
Aging: 12 months on lees in concrete eggs and used French oak barrels.
Alcohol: 13.5% vol.
Vintage: 2021 (Excellent balance and freshness).
2. Luxury Tasting Notes
Appearance: Bright yellow color with straw reflections, very clear.
Nose: Complex and suggestive. Notes of ripe white fruit (pear, apple), hints of aromatic herbs, fennel, and a subtle minerality reminiscent of chalk. The wood is present only as a whisper of fine spices.
Palate: Broad entry with texture. It has a vibrant acidity that runs through the palate, providing magnificent tension. The finish is long, slightly saline, and with an extraordinary fruity persistence.
3. Wine Architecture
4. Recommended Moments and Pairings
Signature Pairing: Due to its structure and acidity, it is ideal for baked fish, bacalao al pil-pil, seafood rice dishes, white meats (poultry), and aged sheep cheeses. It also harmonizes surprisingly well with Asian cuisine dishes with umami touches.
Suggested Moments:
- Business: A white with "weight" and prestige for sophisticated corporate meals.
- Romantic Dinner: Elegance and complexity for a special evening.
- Summer: Perfect for enjoying at sunset, well chilled but allowing it to warm up to appreciate its evolution.
- Special Celebration: A distinctive choice for those seeking something unconventional from Rioja.
- Gift: An impeccable gift for connoisseurs who value terroir-driven whites.
- Family Meal: Ideal for accompanying a large Sunday meal with roasted fish or poultry.
frequently asked questions (FAQS)
What does the use of concrete eggs contribute?
Concrete allows for micro-oxygenation similar to wood but without adding external aromas, which helps maintain fruit purity and accentuates the mineral sensation and volume on the palate.
Is it an organic wine?
Bodegas Exopto practices sustainable and environmentally respectful viticulture, avoiding herbicides and promoting vineyard biodiversity.
At what temperature should it be served?
It is recommended between 10°C and 12°C. It should not be served excessively cold to avoid hiding its aromatic complexity.