Your New Summer Wine!
Albariño could
very well be your new favorite summer wine! Albariño is a white wine grape
typically grown in (but not limited to) Spain. Typical characteristics of the
grape is its distinctive floral notes with summer fruits like apricot, white peach, grapefruit, pineapple and some
undertones of minerality. The wine is generally light and high in acidity with
alcohol levels from 11.5% to 12.5%. It’s bright, zesty and crisp – perfect for
summer! The price to value ratio is superb, typically around $15 or so a
bottle. I have three excellent examples (slightly different in style) of
Albariño from Rias Baixas, southwestern coast of Galicia, Spain.
La Cana, 2014: This is a riper style of Albariño with aromas of
lime zest, white peach and pear followed by flavors of citrus, unripen apples,
and tropical fruits. The citrus and firm minerality lingers on long after you
finish.
Xion, 2014: This being more fuller-bodied, I noted a bouquet of canned pineapple,
honeydew melon and a palate of grapefruit and a mineral edge finishing off with
some fresh citrus notes.
Morgadio, 2014: Unbelievably balanced with scents of crisp
apples, minerals and floral notes. Upon tasting, I noted an explosion of
flavors from apples, orange, mango, and melon. Although I really enjoyed all
three this was my favorite!
Albariño, being
super fresh and crisp pairs fantastically with oysters, shellfish and pan-fried
white meats. People often ask me what’s my new favorite wine – Albariño is my
summer jam without a doubt! Sláinte! TCW
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