At a glance

Producer

Marques de Riscal

Region

Rueda, Spain

Grape variety

Verdejo (primarily), possible small amounts of Viura or Sauvignon Blanc

Wine type

White

Body

Light-bodied and Crisp

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$12-$18 USD per bottle (750ml)

Tasting profile

Aromatic, with pronounced notes of green apple, citrus (lime, grapefruit), white peach, fennel, cut grass, and hints of tropical fruit; lively acidity, light body, clean and mineral finish.

Evolution: Over the next 1-2 years, stone fruit and tropical nuances may become more evident, while grassy and herbaceous notes may soften. Acidity will decrease gradually, leading to a rounder, less vibrant palate.

At peak: At peak, expect optimal balance between citrus fruit, floral lift, delicate herbal notes, and energetic acidity—offering precise freshness and length.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, providing freshness and contributing to short-term aging potential; will softly mellow over time.

Tannins

Low to negligible (typical for white wine, especially Verdejo-based), not a factor in aging.

Alcohol

Moderate (12-13% ABV), currently well-integrated and in balance with the wine's light body and texture.

Aging potential

2-4 years from vintage. Best consumed young while aromatics and crispness are vivid.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2023 to 2024

Optimal window

2022 to 2025

Current status

Ready now

Current condition

Fresh, vibrant and displaying its most expressive fruit and floral notes. In ideal storage, still at peak.

The peak period (2023-2024) is when the wine's varietal characters—especially citrus, green fruit, and floral tones—are most vivid and in balance with its fresh acidity. As time passes, the wine may gain in minerality but will lose some aromatic intensity and vibrant crispness. Post-2025, the risk of oxidation and flatness increases, leading to a less expressive and more neutral profile.

Food pairing

Ideal with shellfish (oysters, clams, mussels), grilled white fish, ceviche, shrimp/prawn dishes, sushi, vegetable risotto, goat cheese, and light salads. As the wine matures and acidity softens, pairings can expand to richer seafood (e.g., scallops, crab) and lightly sauced poultry dishes; avoid heavy or creamy sauces, which could overpower the wine's delicacy.

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Integrated pest management, reduced chemical inputs, water conservation, and biodiversity encouragement.

Marques de Riscal is a leader in Spanish wine sustainability and has adopted modern ecological practices, though may not be certified organic for all lots. Environmentally conscious but not at the absolute frontier of organic/natural certification.