CVNE, Barrel-Fermented Blanco, Rioja, Spain 2019

One of Rioja’s most reliable producers, CVNE is inevitably best known for the red wines that make up the lion’s share of its production. But the company’s skilful way with a barrel is no less evident in this terrific-value white, where the Viura fruit is fermented in 50% new American oak. The result is soft, ripe apple and cream, with a smudge of toasted nut, oak and a hint of fresh acidity.