Although I unfortunately missed the witticisms during the #AlbarinoDay on Twitter May 9th, I eagerly consumed the quips from my fellow bloggers post haste. Albarino [al-bah-REEN-nyo], a finicky, aromatic white grape, is grown primarily in the small, green, lush region on the northwestern coast of Spain, Rías Biaxas [REE-ahse BYEE-shash]. The grapes here practically drown in over 50 inches of rain a year. In order to avoid rot, the fruit is hung far above the wet ground, using granite support posts, rather than wood, to support the vine canopies. Rías Biaxas only produces whites and Albarino is the primary grape, which deliciously complements the area’s primary cuisine, seafood. The flavor and style is similar to New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc mixed with the creamy fuller-bodiedness of Chardonnay, and it smells and tastes like a fruit salad of green apples, pears and citrus.
It has everything I want in a white wine: acid, creaminess and lots of fruit. Wahoo! And it pairs with a grilled slab of that too.
My top five tweets from #AlbarinoDay, wish I coulda/woulda/shoulda said myself:
“If you love Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc you will adore #albarino wine”- @tampawinewoman
“…a perfect cross-cultural match – the [albarino] #winew Jungsik’s posh Korean food” – @MarkOldman
“Perfect whites for summer.” – @WineHarlots
“Albarino Wine – Friendly, Flavorful, Fashionable” – @manoavino
“…everyday should be #AlbarinoDay” – @grapefriend
Albarino Wine Review:
Laxas 2011 Albarino Rias Baixas
Smells like citrus perfume that I want to wallow in. Crisp pear, citrus and light bodied with a creamy mouthfeel. Tart green apple yet has balanced acidity and a granite or slate-like mineral finish (could it be the posts influence?). Expertly crafted vintage after vintage by these folks. A summer sipper that would pair with ceviche, chicken in Asian-based sauces that aren’t too spicy, fresh goat cheeses, and any seafood dish with a light, citrus-based sauce. Sw =1. 4.5 stars. $15- $20.
albarino is not easy to find,and retailers don’t seem to have any interest in it.
I know… that’s a tragedy. BUT, if consumers ask for it, they’ll listen. Try that route.