Muga Rioja Flor de Muga Blanco 2018

94 points Luis Gutiérrez (Wine Advocate): "Like they did with the Rosado a few years ago, there is now a top-of-the-range white. The 2018 Flor de Muga Blanco was produced with a blend of 40% Viura from red limestone and clay soils, 30% Garnacha Blanca from classical clay and limestone and 30% Maturana Blanca planted on sandy soils. They selected the free run must after a short maceration in the press and fermented it in small oak vats (there's no stainless steel at Muga) at low temperature. The wine was then kept with fine lees in concrete eggs for three months, during which time they expected it to fix aromas and provide some volume, and then it was aged in lightly toasted new French oak barrels for six months. The wine has been kept in bottle for 18 months. This is a notable addition to Muga's portfolio, a white that follows the trend for updated traditional whites that go beyond the fresh and fruity wines that were the norm in the last few years, going back to the whites from yesteryear. The wine has a Burgundian profile, less oxidative than the old traditional whites, with smoky and spicy notes, white pepper and flowers, and the varieties feel very integrated and complementary. The palate is medium-bodied, with a velvety texture and very good natural acidity and pH, making it vibrant, transparent and focused. This will be a Reserva and released in February/March 2021. Drink: 2021-2026. (Oct 2020)"

93 points Josh Raynolds (Vinous): "Light green-tinged yellow. Dried citrus and orchard fruit scents, along with building floral, mineral, vanilla and fennel qualities. Chewy, dry and energetic on the palate, offering sappy Meyer lemon, nectarine, chamomile and quinine flavors and a hint of waxiness. Finishes impressively long and tight, leaving orange zest and floral notes behind. Fermented in new French oak barrels and aged in concrete eggs. Drink: 2022-2029. (Apr 2021)"