Spinning Bottles: Vivanco Rioja Blanco 2017

So much wine, so little time! My cell phone is filled with photos of almost every bottle that I taste but it is impossible to write about each one. Inspired by the childhood game of Spin the Bottle, instead of spinning an actual bottle and kissing the person that the bottle points at, I've opted to take a spin through my wine photos until one gives me that tingling feeling that reminds me of how delicious it was. After all, a great glass of wine is almost as good as kissing (sometimes better)!


As the temperature rises, refreshing white wines are an elegant thirst-quencher. Don't get me wrong, I love a gorgeous glass of rosé but pink wines aren't the only option when you're craving a perfectly chilled glass of wine. For something deliciously different, give Vivanco Rioja Blanco 2017 ($13.99) a swirl. This Spanish charmer is the first blend from Rioja to combine Viura (50%), Tempranillo Blanco (35%), and Maturana Blanca (15%). 

Like a jazz trio, each grape plays an important part in the Vivanco blend and together they create a harmonious expression that melds modernity and tradition. Viura is the main white grape grown in Rioja and is known for producing fruity wines with great acidity. Not discovered until 1988, Tempranillo Blanco is a natural genetic mutation of Rioja's iconic red Tempranillo grape and has captivatingly fruity aromas. Exclusive to Rioja, Maturana Blanca was mentioned in a text dating back to 1622; making it the oldest grape variety to have a written record in Rioja. Maturana Blanca adds zingy green apple and grassy notes. Vivanco's zestiness, crisp minerality, and fresh citrus flavors make it a cool choice on a steamy day.