Galicia
This region is located in the north of Portugal facing the Atlantic in which Galicia region is noted for the strong influences from its Celtic past. Here the DO of Rías Baixas produces light wines with good acidity.
Rías Baixas has a lot of rain with a large annual rainfall for a Spanish region but the drainage is good thanks to the loose granite soils. White wines dominate and the Albariño grape is grown in 96% of the vineyards. Other varieties grown are almost same in the neighbouring Vinho Verde region in Portugal. Due to the high vigour and high humidity, vines are trained on overhead trellis. The vinification facilities are modern with pneumatic grape presses and temperature controlled stainless steel tanks designed to retain freshness and purity of fruit. The white wines have typical aromas of green apple and white flowers with refreshing acidity which match well with the seafood.
| Albariño/Alvarinho White grape variety | ||
| Styles | Climate: Primary profile: Secondary flavours: Tertiary flavours: | Mostly maritime but grown in warm climates Aromatic with salty, grapefruit, light peach and apricot. Has high acidity and light body and can have a bitter finish Rarely barrel aged. Lees ageing can happen but unusual adding yoghurt notes Normally consumed young but will last for around 5 years |
| Features | Primarily used in Albariño from Northern Spain and Vinho Verde from Portugal Grows well in cool and damp conditions Often high yield and diluted from high rainfall leading to loss of concentration and low sugar levels creating very dry wines low in alcohol Has high pip content which can add a bitter ‘pithy’ character Grown in warmer climates as well where it retains character but loses acidity May need acid adjustment in warmer climates | |
| Pair with – Fish, seafood, sushi, ceviche, herbs, Thai, Vietnamese | ||