Though Rioja has produced sparkling wine for nearly a century it’s always had to be designated as Cava, that is until Rafael Vivanco worked with the Spanish Regulatory Council to designate a new category of sparkling Rioja. To say this wine is a passion project for him is an undersell. This beautiful blend of Viura, Chardonnay, and Tempranillo Blanco is lights out! Brisk and expressive with white flowers, citrus, pineapple, and brioche from 15 months on the lees. Excellent concentration of fruit in the mid palate with nothing out of place.