With more than 12,000 hectares under vine in Rias Baixas, it's a shame that Americans have only just recently discovered the virtues of Albarino. Thankfully, we've discovered the wines in a big way, with more than 48% of Albarino exports hitting U.S. shores.
With "rip your face off" acidity, and a tropical fruit-n-herbs driven flavor profile, these wines are more "summertime" than Will Smith. The La Cana Albarino was one of my favorite wine finds, of any kind, this summer season. A joint venture between the Gil Family of Jumilla and famed-though-often-controversial importer Jorge Ordonez, the wine spends 20% in large seasoned oak barrels sur-lie, which gives it a weightier texture that is so often lacking in Albarino, while maintaining the zingy-zangy quality that make it a great wine to match with lighter salads and fish dishes.
Gary's tasting note:
Citrus, walnuts, and shredded fruit peel on the nose. Mmmm super well made, good balance and good richness. Great complexity and very well made Albarino. Good complexity for this varietal, with nutty fruit and finish which reminds me of grapenuts with sliced kiwis, bananas, and peaches for breakfast.
The Verdict:
2010 La Cana Albarino
100% Albarino
91 points
$13 MSRP
Gary's tasting note:
Citrus, walnuts, and shredded fruit peel on the nose. Mmmm super well made, good balance and good richness. Great complexity and very well made Albarino. Good complexity for this varietal, with nutty fruit and finish which reminds me of grapenuts with sliced kiwis, bananas, and peaches for breakfast.
The Verdict:
2010 La Cana Albarino
100% Albarino
91 points
$13 MSRP
Contributor: Gary Vaynerchuck of Daily Grape and Wine Library.
In most cases for food and drinks, you get what you pay for. That's honestly not bad for $13 spirit.
Posted by: wine online | 04/10/2012 at 03:17 AM