Condes de Albarei Albariño

WHY WE LOVE IT

  • The vineyards are surrounded by mountains and crossed by the Umia River, they consist of 740 acres of Albariño, all of which are estate-owned by the grower/owners, not by contract-producers.
  • Due to the fact that this area is one of the wettest and coolest part of Spain, the “pergola” method of trellising is utilized. This exposes the grapes to as much sun and drying breezes as possible, reducing rot caused by dampness, controlling infection by harmful bacteria and thus ensuring the fullest and most sanitary ripening possible.

Varietal Composition: 100% Albariño

Elaboration: Traditional vinification. Fermentation occurs in temperature controlled vats.

Tasting Notes: This wine has a rich, vibrant mouth feel. Varietal aromas of tropical fruit (pineapple) and citrus aromas (oranges), with a hint of white flowers (orange blossom). Well-balanced, fresh and pleasant with lingering finish.

PRESS

2016 – 90 Vinous | 90 James Suckling

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.

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