Two Rioja Wines, Ready for Summer Fun
​June 19, 2026

​Rioja is renowned for its red wines, but did you know that white wine is also produced?  Rioja is Spain’s premier wine region, producing high quality, complex red wines that are incredible value for wine lovers, but also crisp, easy-drinking white wines that pair well with summer fun and food. Here are a couple of suggestions for laid-back summer entertaining, lighter-weight wines that are good with food (or by the glass) and on the wallet.

The El Coto de Rioja, El Coto Blanco 2024 (SRP $12-15), a blend of 93% Viura (the signature white grape of Rioja), 4% Sauvignon Blanc and 3% Verdejo, is fresh and aromatic, with vibrant notes of white fruit, citrus and a hint of white flowers and herbal character. This is a crisp wine, yet with a round texture and a mineral undertone, in the mouth, lemon, lime and green apple burst onto the palate, making for a great balance of flavor and texture. Mouthwateringly delicious, it brings the “Z” to zesty! The grapes, grown in high-altitude estate vineyards in La Rioja Alta, are fermented at low temperatures in stainless steel, maximizing the freshness and aromas. And while delightful by the glass, it really goes well with food, especially seafood, grilled fish, salads and cured meats.

​The Bodegas Muga, Muga Reserva 2021 (SRP $25-35), is a Tempranillo dominant blend, along with Garnacha, Mazuelo and Graciano. Supple, silky tannins frame the vibrant berry fruit (blackberries and dark plums) integrated with spice notes, and accented by cedar and balsamic. Well balanced, with a long finish, it’s more on the lighter side, and with its fruit profile, this is a candidate for slightly chilling to go along with the heat of summer. This is the winery’s flagship wine, with a larger production but they don’t skimp on the quality. Juicy and plush, fresh but with that savory essence of Rioja, there is a hint of dark chocolate or cocoa powder, just enough to provide intrigue. The 2021 Reserva is from a very good vintage, when cooler weather allowed a longer hang time, with fuller aromas and flavors. During winemaking, the various grapes are separately fermented in 80% French and 20% American oak barrels, allowing Muga to maintain a style, considered a balance of modern and traditional Rioja. It’s great with ribeye steak, skewers, and grilled anything, as well as charcuterie.

​These wines are good choices for outdoor dinner parties, backyard grilling, or just hanging out with friends. Although I received these samples as part of a promotional campaign for Rioja, I do highly recommend them for their freshness and flavor, these wines are so food-friendly and perfect candidates for chilling, a great way to beat the summer heat!

El Coto de Rioja, El Coto Blanco, https://elcoto.com/en/white/

Bodegas Muga, Muga Reserva, ​https://www.bodegasmuga.com/en/muga/