Conde de los Andes Semi Dulce 2003

DOCa Rioja, Spain

Viura (100%) · 2003 · 12% abv

A rare example of sweet white Rioja, this Viura is rich yet beautifully balanced. Aromas of citrus peel, toasted almond, fennel and warm brioche lead into a palate that’s silky and gently honeyed without ever feeling heavy. The residual sugar is offset by fresh acidity, giving a long, layered finish that’s as elegant as it is indulgent.

Production

Grapes are harvested at full ripeness and fermentation is deliberately stopped early to retain part of the grape’s natural sugar. The wine then spends 12 months maturing in oak barrels, building texture and complexity, followed by a remarkable decade of bottle ageing before release — a patient process that creates depth, nuance and length.

Vinyard

Sourced from mature Viura vineyards in Rioja Alta, where calcareous soils and Atlantic breezes produce fruit with natural acidity and aromatic lift. Careful canopy management ensures slow ripening and concentrated sugars — essential for a sweet wine that remains poised and vibrant.

Pairing

A versatile partner for the end of a meal: try it with creamy panna cotta, almond tart or fresh fruit salads. Its balance of sweetness and freshness also makes it a superb companion to salty cheeses like aged Manchego or even foie gras for a classic sweet–savoury pairing.