Warm weather is here and with it the desire for many to drink a higher percentage of white and Rosé wines. While the usual suspects like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are still out there in force, wine drinkers have a lot more options these days. It seems like so many wine growing countries have white varietals that are emerging in the US. Argentina has Torrontes, Austria has Grüner Veltliner and the Basque have Txakoli. While Albarino from Spain has been on our shelves for years it’s never gotten the mainstream acclaim it deserves. With our wine drinking as a nation growing up a little each year it may see its day yet. Today I’m going to look at an Albarino from Adegas D’Altamira.
The Adegas D’Altamira 2008 Albarino Brandal is 100% varietal. Grapes for this selection were chosen from small blocks in the northwest of Spain. All the fruit was handpicked hand sorted and destemmed. This offering did not undergo malolactic fermentation. 12,000 cases of this Albarino were produced and the suggested retail price is $17.99.
Mango, apricot and vanilla aromas permeate the full nose of this 2008 Albarino. Both white and yellow peach notes are prominent throughout the palate. These are joined by a nice wallop of spice notes. Overall the mouth feel is fuller and juicier than the average Albarino. Hints of lemon zest emerge on the finish along with some savory spice characteristics. The finish is crisp, dry and refreshing. Good acidity keep things balanced and makes this a natural partner for food. That said it’s pretty tasty on its own and will also work that way.