Bordon Blanco Seco — A Friendly Guide to White Rioja

What is White Rioja?

White Rioja is the white wine style produced in Spain's celebrated Rioja region. Unlike the region's famous reds, white Rioja is typically made from Viura (also known as Macabeo) and can range from zesty and light to fuller, fruit-driven styles. Bordon Blanco Seco is a classic example: a single-variety Viura with a brilliant pale yellow color, an intensely fruity bouquet, and a clean, expressive, dry palate at 13% ABV.

Can I find White Rioja at Aldi or Asda?

Major supermarket chains such as Aldi and Asda often stock white Rioja wines, either as branded bottles or their own-label selections. Availability depends on season, store location, and current buying cycles. If you’re hunting for a particular bottle, check each retailer's website or call your local store. For a wider selection, online wine merchants and specialist stores will usually have multiple Rioja blanco options.

How does Bordon Blanco Seco compare to El Coto White Rioja?

El Coto is an established Rioja producer with a recognizable range that includes white Riojas. In general terms:

• El Coto whites are often produced in a fresh, approachable style and can range from unoaked to lightly aged expressions depending on the bottling.
• Bordon Blanco Seco emphasizes a very fruity, single-variety Viura character — brilliantly pale, intensely aromatic, and very clean on the palate while remaining light and dry.

If you prefer a punchy fruity white with immediate aromatics and a light mouthfeel, Bordon Blanco Seco is an excellent choice; if you’re looking for a more structured or oak-influenced white Rioja, check specific El Coto bottlings that mention ageing on the label.

What are the best food pairings for White Rioja?

White Rioja’s versatility makes it a great partner for many dishes. Here are pairing ideas that suit a fruity, dry Viura like Bordon Blanco Seco:

• Seafood and shellfish: grilled prawns, mussels, or sea bass.
• Light fish dishes: ceviche, baked cod or lemony fish fillets.
• Tapas and Spanish cuisine: fried calamari, patatas bravas, or marinated olives.
• Poultry and light pasta: roast chicken, creamy but not heavy pasta sauces.
• Soft cheeses and salads: goat cheese, mild sheep’s cheese, or citrusy salads.

Why does the Rioja Valley matter for this wine?

The Rioja Valley provides varied soils and a continental-Mediterranean climate that together shape the character of the grapes. For white Rioja, the local Viura grape benefits from cool nights and warm days, producing fresh acidity and aromatic fruitiness. These conditions help wines like Bordon Blanco Seco keep bright aromatics while delivering a pleasant, easy-drinking texture.

Tasting notes and serving tips

Serve white Rioja chilled to 8–106C (46–506F) in a standard white wine glass to highlight aromatic intensity. Because Bordon Blanco Seco is a clean, fruit-forward Viura, it doesn’t require decanting — simply chill and enjoy. Cork closure adds a touch of tradition; allow the bottle to stand upright briefly after transport so any cork sediment settles.

Want to try something fruity, dry, and approachable?

If you’re looking for a bright, single-variety Viura that pairs well with a wide range of dishes and is easy to enjoy on its own, consider giving a try.

Its pale color, lively bouquet, and light palate make it a friendly introduction to white Rioja.

Happy tasting — and remember to explore different producers and vintages: white Rioja has more variety than many people expect.