94 points Wine Advocate

"The first white I tasted from Artuke is the 2021 Trascuevas Blanco, a blend of 90% Viura with 5% each Malvasía Riojana and Palomino Fino from three vineyards in the villages of Baños de Ebro, Samaniego and Ábalos. The clusters were pressed, and the juice fermented with indigenous yeasts. The wine matured in similar proportions in 600-liter oak foudres and concrete tanks for 11 months. It's expressive, clean and balanced, modern but with clear Rioja typicity, a little balsamic and spicy. It's serious, very balanced and fresh, super tasty and with a chalky sensation in the finish." - LG The Wine Advocate

The 2021 “Trascuevas” from Bodegas y Viñedos Artuke is a vibrant, terroir-driven white from Rioja Alavesa, showcasing the elegance and mineral precision of Viura (Macabeo) with a modern stylistic lift. Artuke’s commitment to low-yield, organically farmed vineyards and minimal intervention in the cellar ensures a wine of clarity, freshness, and aromatic purity.

Technical Notes

• Grape Variety: 90% Viura 5% Malvasia 5% Palomino Fino
• Appellation: Rioja DOCa
• Vineyards: Old vines planted on limestone and clay soils at high altitude (500–600 meters)
• Farming: Organic viticulture; hand-harvested
• Vinification: Native yeast fermentation in stainless steel and neutral barrels; aged on fine lees for texture; bottled unfined and unfiltered
• Alcohol: ~12.5% ABV

Terroir
The Trascuevas vineyards sit on limestone and clay soils with excellent drainage and cooler temperatures, preserving acidity, freshness, and minerality. The altitude and microclimate encourage slow ripening, allowing the Viura grapes to develop aromatic precision and tension.

Tasting Notes
Pale straw in color, the 2021 vintage opens with aromas of white peach, green apple, citrus blossom, and crushed stone, with subtle hints of almond and herbs from lees aging. On the palate, it is crisp, lively, and textured, showing flavors of pear, lemon zest, and saline minerality, balanced by refreshing acidity and a long, clean finish. The wine is vibrant and expressive, offering both immediacy and elegance.

Bodegas y Viñedos Artuke “Trascuevas” 2021 is a mineral-driven, elegant white Rioja with freshness, balance, and expressive aromatics. Perfect with oysters, grilled fish, light seafood dishes, or creamy cheeses, it captures the unique personality of Rioja Alavesa while remaining bright, approachable, and food-friendly.