2022 Bodegas Exopto Rioja Horizonte de Exopto Blanco

The 2022 Horizonte de Exopto Blanco is a fresh, finely tuned white Rioja from one of the region’s most progressive small producers. Bodegas Exopto is all about site expression and thoughtful blending, and this cuvée shows exactly how they do it – combining old-vine Viura and Garnacha Blanca from high-altitude, north-facing vineyards in Ábalos and San Vicente for purity, texture and drive.

Fermentation takes place in a mix of concrete, stainless steel and older French oak barrels, with wild yeast and minimal intervention. There’s no flash or obvious oak influence here – just clean fruit, gentle lees work and a savoury edge that gives the wine depth without heaviness. The 2022 vintage is especially bright, with citrus, white florals and a chalky backbone carrying through a long, dry finish.

It’s not your typical creamy white Rioja – this is tighter, more focused, and aimed squarely at the table. One for the Chablis and white Burgundy crowd who want to explore something different, but equally serious.

93+ points
"The wine is expressive, harmonious, clean and quite fruit-driven and refreshing... finishing with a salty twist. It's approachable but should last in bottle."
- Luis Gutiérrez (The Wine Advocate)

93 points
"It offers enticing aromas of honey and pineapple, with hints of fennel, cedar and caramel... a dry and creamy profile, with an oily and vibrant texture... showcasing the best of both worlds."
- Joaquín Hidalgo (Vinous)

92 points
"Focused, nuanced and well balanced... subtle wood spices, notes of aniseed, lanolin and citrus and a hint of cream."
- Tim Atkin MW (Rioja Report 2024)