2016 Opolo Albarino $25.95

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Winery Tasting Notes:  “Grapes for this wine were sourced from California’s famed Edna Valley.  Characterized by its cool, constant temperatures, Edna Valley is an ideal location for the production of premium white wines. The long cool growing seasonal lows for an extended ripening period which enables the development of intense varietal flavors.

The Albariño grapes were hand harvested very early in the morning to ensure that they arrived at the winery as cold as possible.  The whole clusters were lightly pressed and fermented very slowly in stainless steel.  This long cool fermentation process preserved the delicate flavors and aromas characteristic of Albariño.  Fermentation was arrested before malolactic fermentation occurred which contributes to this wine bright acidity.

Opens with vibrant aromas of citrus blossoms, lemon zest, and grapefruit. White peach, apricot, and fresh spring flowers assault the palate and glide into a polished mineral laden finish. Exceptional. Enjoy now.”

What is Albarino?  “It’s a variety of white wine grape grown in Galicia (northwest Spain), Monção and Melgaço (northwest Portugal), where it is used to make varietal white wines. Albariño is the Galician name for the grape; in Portugal it is known as Alvarinho, and sometimes as Cainho Branco.

The grape is noted for its distinctive botanical aroma, very similar to that of Viognier, Gewurztraminer, and Petit Manseng, suggesting apricot and peach. The wine produced is unusually light, and generally high in acidity.”

Blend: 100% Albarino
Alcohol Level: 14.1%
Cases Produced: 1108
Winemaker Name: Rick Quinn & Dave Nichols
Maturity: Drink Now – 2022

Pairings:  Raw Fish, Oysters, Steamed Clams, Green Veges, Pungent Cheeses such as Bleu or Roquefort

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