WHY WE LOVE IT
- The Condes de Albarei Albariño is a vibrant, dry white wine from the Rías Baixas region in Galicia, Spain.
- Sourced from shallow, sandy soils in the Salnés Valley, the vines are older than 25 years.
- Grapes are grown on traditional “pergola” trellises, which improve airflow and sun exposure while protecting against humidity.
- Produced by a cooperative of over 300 growers, it is recognized as a benchmark for high-quality, value-driven Albariño.
Varietal Composition: 100% Albariño
Elaboration: The training system is a pergola. Grapes are hand-picked in 20 kg crates and sorted in the vineyard and cellar. Alcoholic fermentation uses free-run juices and wild yeasts for about 10 days at 14-16ºC, followed by partial malolactic fermentation with indigenous bacteria.
Tasting Notes: A clean, bright yellow-straw color with greenish glints. Fresh, with attractive aromas typical of the Albariño grape, dominated by stone fruit (peach, apricot) and tropical fruit (pineapple, passion fruit). White flowers (orange blossom) and hints of citrus are also coming through. Well-balanced, fresh, and pleasant. On the palate, a delicious varietal character, together with subtle mineral and citrus notes.
PRESS
2016 – 90 Vinous | 90 James Suckling
2024 – 92 Jeb Dunnuck | 90 Vinous
PRODUCER BACKGROUND
Founded in 1988 (the same year the D.O. Rias Baixas was officially granted its charter), Adega Condes de Albarei is a cooperative of 362 grower/owners. It is located in the valley known as O Salnès, in the heart of D.O. Rias Baixas. It is two kilometers away from Cambados, in the province of “Galicia.” Galicia is one of the oldest areas in Spain, settled originally by the Celts. Considered by many experts to be the most prestigious white-wine producing region of Spain today, D.O. Rias Baixas has produced wine for centuries; though its renaissance owes much to the modernization of winemaking that has taken place over the last two decades.
Condes de Albarei was founded in 1988 by a small group of vine growers from the Salnés Valley, who united their efforts and vineyards to make and market excellent, high-quality Albariños. Condes de Albarei was the first Spanish white wine to earn a Gold Medal at the Challenge International du Vin in Bordeaux in 1991, and ever since, their wines have earned the highest recognition in both national and international competitions. Today, Condes de Albarei is a benchmark in D.O. Rías Baixas and Condes de Albarei Albariño is the flagship brand of the winery.