We are officially in the thick of prime BBQ season. As we celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary (I may or may not have memories of the bicentennial) it is the perfect time to discover a new favorite bottle to share with friends and family. But I’m here to shake things up. As you season your corn on the cob and prep the grill, I have a bold suggestion: put down that bottle of red and reach for a white from Rioja instead.
Rioja Now!
It’s time to shift your wine thoughts and the wine in your glass. If you’ve been noticing more Rioja popping up on wine lists and store shelves, there is a good reason for it: the region is booming. In fact, the United States currently remains the #1 international market for visitors to Rioja, so you are in great company if you’re looking to explore the region!
According to the DOCa Rioja Wine Tourism Monitor, Rioja now leads as Spain’s premier wine tourism destination, welcoming over one million visitors last year. This influx shows a region that is rapidly evolving, moving far beyond the “classic” concept of wine tourism to offer specialized gastronomy, exclusive tastings, and even vineyard sports.
But here is the best part: you don’t need to book a flight to Spain this summer to enjoy what the region has to offer. You just need a corkscrew and a grill.
Rioja Blanco; The Summer Goldilocks Wine
This summer, I’m challenging you to try something different: Rioja Blanco. Think of it as the “Goldilocks” of the BBQ world. It’s never too heavy, never too thin, but always just right for the grill.
Rioja Blanco isn’t a one-size-fits-all category; it’s a spectrum of styles. To find your perfect match, you really only need to look for two main versions:
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The “Joven” (Fresh & Vibrant): These are your young, unoaked superstars. Think crisp, zesty, and electric acidity. These wines act like a squeeze of lemon over your plate—they are the perfect “poolside pounders” and the ultimate pairing for grilled shrimp or white fish.
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The Barrel-Fermented (Rich & Refined): If you are looking for a bit more soul, seek out the barrel-fermented versions. Because they spend time in oak, they gain a luxurious, creamy texture with layers of complexity. Think roasted pineapple, toasted hazelnut, and warm spice. These are the “power-whites” that have the weight and depth to stand up to the smoke, char, and savory fats of a brisket or baby back ribs.
Whether you’re grilling delicate vegetables or rich, fatty meats, there is a Goldilocks-approved bottle of Rioja waiting to make your BBQ season complete. (When you’re at your local wine shop, look for the official Rioja DOCa back label. It will often explicitly state if the wine has been ‘Joven’ or ‘Crianza/Reserva’ making your selection process a breeze.)
How to Prep the Wine for the Party
First and foremost: temperature matters! It’s hot outside, but don’t leave your bottle buried in a cooler full of ice for the duration of the party. Serving wine at near-freezing temperatures essentially “freezes” the aromatics, locking away the beautiful hazelnut and orchard fruit notes you’re looking for.
Aim for a serving temperature of 45–50°F. A simple trick? Pull the bottle out of the ice or fridge about 15 minutes before you plan to pour. That little bit of warmth will wake up the wine, dramatically increasing its vibrancy and expressiveness.
Rioja Blanco is your secret weapon for a chaotic BBQ menu. It is a true “start-to-finish” wine. Its natural acidity and nutty undertones make it an ideal pairing for everything on your table. From pre-game snacks like salted olives, Marcona almonds, (my favorite!) and aged Manchego, all the way through to your grilled meats, your Rioja Blanco will rise to the occasion.
Finally, the best-kept secret is the price point. Rioja is magic in the glass that won’t empty your wallet. The region’s prestige is unmistakable, but the value is truly undeniable. Treat yourself and your guests to a bottle(or three) and you’ll understand exactly what I mean.
Wines to Try
2023 Viñedos de Altura Blanco, El Pacto del Alto Najerilla
I recently received a sample of the 2023 Viñedos de Altura Blanco, El Pacto del Alto Najerilla, and it really reminded me why I love this region so much. The winemakers have been talking about making a white version of their popular red ‘Pacto’ for a long time, wanting it to be just as impressive and full of personality. Well, they finally did it. By using grapes from some of their best, high-altitude vineyards in the villages of Cárdenas and Nájera, they’ve managed to create something special; a wine that’s complex, lingers on the palate, and has just the right amount of zip. In Spain, they have a fun word for a wine like this: a vinazo.
It’s the perfect example of that ‘Goldilocks’ quality I’ve been talking about for your BBQ season. It isn’t too heavy or too simple; it’s that ideal, sophisticated white that can handle the smoky char of a grill while staying refreshing enough for a warm afternoon. It’s a stellar bottle that just feels like a celebration, and honestly, it’s the perfect reminder that sometimes the best way to elevate your backyard cookout is to just pour a glass of something with a little bit of history behind it.
2020 Faustino I Gran Reserve Blanco
Faustino is a name that most people associate with their iconic red Gran Reservas, so it was really cool to see them apply that same obsession with aging and quality to a white blend. This wine is made from 50-year-old Viura vines and a touch of Chardonnay, and because it spends time in oak, it has this gorgeous, silky texture that feels almost creamy, like toasted hazelnuts and vanilla. It’s definitely not a ‘quick glass.’ In fact, it’s a wine that has real layers to it. If you’re planning a BBQ that involves something a bit richer, like grilled lobster, roasted poultry, or even just some really good aged cheese, this is your gold-medal pick. It brings that bit of luxury to the backyard without losing its sense of fun.
Do you have a favorite Rioja Blanco producer you reach for during BBQ season? Let me know in the comments—I’m always looking for new bottles to add to my rotation!
~Slàinte!
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