These tiny production, traditionally styled Rioja Tinto and Rioja Blanco wines from Alegre Valganon are new to the store and have quickly become staff favorites.
Both the Tinto and the Blanco scored 92 points from the Wine Advocate and supplies are very limited – only 3 cases of each available. Don’t miss this chance to experience some amazing artisanal Riojas at a fantastic price. Stop by and pick some up or use the contact form below to place your orders.
2017 Alegre Valganon Rioja Blanco & 2016 Alegre Valganon Rioja Tinto
92 Points Each, Wine Advocate
To inquire about pricing and availability, please use the contact form below.
Oscar Alegre and Eva Valganon met while studying enology in Italy where they fell in love and later married after returning to Spain to take over their families’ vineyards just west of Haro in Rioja. They are inspired by the ancient winemaking techniques of the region including farming and harvesting small vineyards by hand, fermenting with whole clusters and native yeasts and aging in large, neutral French oak barrels. The use of stems and the absence of new oak yields super fresh, vivid wines that are truly expressive of the local terroir.
The white is comprised of 90% Viura and 10% Garnacha Blanca fermented in stainless steel with the stems and aged for 1 year in 600L demi-muids. The Wine Advocate says ‘the wine has citrus aromas, hints of diesel, dried yellow flowers and a touch of smoke. It’s beautifully textured with intense and pungent flavors and a clear saline note. Truly delicious! 375 cases produced.’
The red blends 80% Tempranillo and 20% old vine Garnacha fermented in wood vats with a small portion of whole clusters. Aging also occurs in 250L and 600L French barrels. According to the Wine Advocate ‘it has the advantage of the 2016 vintage with floral aromas and citrus freshness. It makes me think of blood oranges. It has perfectly integrated oak and fine tannins and feels clean. 2,000 cases produced.’
We think Alegre Valgañón’s wines are another home run from importer Rare Wine Company who have this to say about their protégés – ‘They are turning out head-spinning reds and whites that capture the best of their beloved land’s 1,000+ year history. Their wines, informed by this ancestral wisdom, are offering something unique in today’s Rioja landscape’. If you are a fan of naturally made, complex and compelling wines these are definitely worth checking out!
Josh Spurling
Owner/Operator at Table Wine
828.505.8588
josh@tablewineasheville.com