Viura

Viura (also known as Macabeau) is a white wine grape variety most commonly found in the Rioja and Rueda regions of Spain. It is not an overly aromatic grape variety, used to make light-bodied, versatile wines that range from dry to sweet.

Viura grapes are small, lemon-green in colour, with a juicy, crunchy texture. The flavours and aromas it produces tend to be quite subtle, with notes of citrus, apples, pears and white flowers. The taste profile of Viura wines tends to be light-bodied and crisp, with a pleasant acidity.

Viura is most widely grown in Spain, particularly in the Rioja and Rueda regions, where it is known as Viura. It is also grown in France, where it is called Macabeu Viura grapes are highly resistant to drought and grow well in warm climates. Because Viura is quite resistant to oxidation, it is a popular option for traditional winemaking techniques, such as barrel fermentation, lees stirring and malolactic fermentation. In Rioja, Viura is blended with other white grape varieties, such as Malvasia, Garnacha Blanca and Verdejo, to create crisp, floral whites. In Rueda, Viura is blended with Verdejo to create light, fresh wines with intense aromas and flavours. In Banyuls and Maury, it is part of the blend to make both sweet and dry wine. Viura wines are extremely versatile. They are particularly good with seafood, light salads and Mediterranean cuisine.

Viura is the same grape variety as Macabeo, which is most commonly found in Cava, Spain's sparkling wine.