200 Monges Selección Especial Blanco 2010

This is a special edition of this remarkable white blend that's even better than the regular 2010 release reviewed in my 2020 report. Think of it as Rioja meets Puligny-Montrachet in terms of style, pairing Viura and 10% Malvasía from the cool areas of Abelda de Iregua, Cañas and Badarán, with notes of patisserie, lemon zest and gunflint, fine oak and a tapering finish. Stunning. 2021-30

Bright medium-gold hue. Toast, roasted spices, brioche, cashews and lemon curd on the nose. Full and textured, with a creamy mid-palate and a long, substantial finish. Still fresh and bright. This is showing extremely well now.

The golden-colored 2010 200 Monges Selección Especial Reserva Blanco had some developed aromas of camphor and something mineral, diesel-like notes, with a core of dried flowers and a touch of honey. This blend of Viura, 20% Malvasía Riojana and 10% Garnacha Blanca and other varieties from old vineyards fermented and matured in new French and American oak barrels for 14 months. The palate is nicely balanced, with enough harmony between weight and freshness. 3,000 bottles. - Luis Gutiérrez.