Forjas del Salnes 2023 'Leirana' Albarino, Rias Baixas DO

Vineyard Notes: Rías Baixas is tucked into the green rolling hills of the northwest corner of Spain, just above Portugal, hugging the deep blue Atlantic coastline. It is a breathtaking region overall, and the sub-region of Val do Salnes, the birthplace of Albariño, is no exception. Within the five unique subzones that fall under the D.O. Rías Baixas , Val do Salnes’ prime location is the coolest and most fertile area of the D.O. on the Atlantic coast of Spain. In fact, there is more Albariño vines planted there than any of the other four sub-regions sharing its Rías Baixas name.

Winemaking Notes: This is a wine that is unmistakably maritime. Using almost forgotten minimal intervention techniques learned through generational viticulture knowledge, Rodri recreates the Albariño of yesteryear. This is a wine of power, elegance and salinity that can truly stand among the best white wines of the world. Naturally occurring fermentation takes place with its own yeast. The wine is aged in 80% stainless and 20% neutral foudre. The wine does not go through malolactic fermentation.

Pairing Suggestions: The salinity of Leirana makes it a natural pairing for scallops, oysters, and shellfish of all kinds, as well as the Galician classic octopus dish known as pulpo gallego.