Wine of the Month, October 2025
A White of Substance for a Cooler Month
Rioja, but not as you know it.
Rioja. The very name conjures images of dusty bottles of red, all cherry and vanilla, perfect for a Sunday roast. And for good reason, of course. But those in the know are well aware that the region has another trick up its sleeve. White Rioja, particularly when it’s given a bit of serious thought, is a different proposition altogether. Our October Wine of the Month, Finca Manzanos 1890 Blanco, is exactly that: a confident, characterful white that proves it's a wine for grown-ups.
From old vines that provide a natural concentration, this is a far cry from a simple crisp summer white. It’s been given a light touch of pack, which lends a creamy texture and subtle nutty complexity to the palate, without overpowering its inherent freshness. You’ll find notes of citrus peel and ripe stone fruit, but also a hint of spice and a savoury depth that’s genuinely compelling. It’s a wine that starts where many others stop - a proper, grown-up white that isn’t afraid to show a bit of complexity. And for those who appreciate the details, it’s entirely vegan.
This is a wine for the turning of the season. It’s not for a flimsy salad, but for a proper supper: think a rich fish pie, roasted chicken with all the trimmings, or a selection of good cheeses. It’s a wine to sit with, ponder, and enjoy as the evenings draw in.
And throughout October, you can acquire this impressive white at its mixed six price of just £15.50, plus you’ll pocket 100 bonus loyalty points with every bottle.
Think you know white Rioja? Think again.
