La Val Orballo Albariño – 2018
La Val is a relative newcomer who, since the bodega was founded 20 years ago, has grown to become one of the largest vineyard owners in Rìas Baixas, with over 90 hectares. As a result, this is one of the most reliable sources of good quality, moderately-priced Albariño.
This is a blend of grapes from two estates in the south of DO Rias Baixas in Galicia, northwest Spain. Taboexa is a 13ha estate at 300m above sea level, with sandy and granitic soil typical of the region. The Arantei estate is at just 30m above sea level – with clay and pebbly soil. Harvest typically begins in the middle of September – grapes are hand-harvested and collected in 20-kilo crates
Food recommendations:
The fresh acidity allows it to cut through many foods including baked goats cheese, grilled or fried fish or a lovely Nicoise salad
The science bit:
70% of the grapes are macerated before pressing for 6 hours at a controlled temperature. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel using natural yeasts, and maturation on the lees is also in stainless steel. The mineral and fruity character from the Arantei grapes is balanced by the freshness of the Taboexa grapes.
The winemaker is José María Ureta
