Alvarez y Diez, Mantel Blanco, Sauvignon Blanc, DO Rueda, Spain, 2023

Producer Profile

Alvarez y Diez are one of the most important producers of D.O. Rueda wines, arguably Spain’s most successful white wine growing region.

With 100 hectares of their own vineyards, they practice viticulture based on minimal intervention, allowing the climate, with its strong contrasts between day and night temperatures to provide the perfect balance of ripeness and acidity. The clay content in their sub-soils retains moisture, which is then made available to the vines during summer and particularly useful in drought years which are becoming increasingly common. Wines are made in their state of the art winery, however they continue to use the old underground wine cellar that belonged to the Church as a barrel store, linking the history of the area with modern production and an eye on the future. Concentrating on the indigenous Verdejo and Sauvignon Blanc, Alvarez y Diez were one of the first wineries to produce the crisp, herbaceous style that is associated with Rueda today.

Viticulture

Made exclusively with grapes from their own vineyards in Paga La Serna, at an altitude of 770m, on a terrace of cretaceous soils formed by the Duero River in tertiary times. All vineyard activities are carried out in as sustainable a way as possible, to respect the environment and maintain soil integrity.

Winemaking

Grapes are harvested at night to preserve acidity; they are fully destemmed, followed by a skin contact maceration for several hours prior to pressing. Anaerobic winemaking practices and temperature controlled fermentation in stainless steel all help to preserve the bright, zingy flavours found in the freshly picked grapes.

Oak Ageing

No oak ageing

Tasting Note

Vibrant greengage and gooseberry aromas combine with a hint of citrus to give a fresh and vibrant nose. These are reflected on the palate with the addition of mineral notes and appealing citrus acidity through to the finish.

Food Matching

Perfect with Asian food, rice dishes and crisp salads, vegetables and soft cheese.