Zarate Albariño, Val do Salnes, Rias Baixas 2023

• Winemakers: Eulogio Pomares and Rebeca Montero
• Farming: Organic certified 
  
• Varieties: 100% Albariño
• Terroir: A mix of organic material over granite. All grapes are drawn from throughout the estate’s vineyards. Vines are trained on granite pergolas (“parra”) at a low density of about 1,200 plants/hectare.
• Vinification:  All harvests are by hand. Fermentations are allowed to start with their ambient yeasts. Spends 6 months on fine lees in tank. 10- 25% can go through spontaneous malolactic fermentation, depending on the year.
• 3,700 cases produced
• Tasting Note: An incredibly concentrated and aromatic wine from one of the best Albarino producers in the world. This wine is medium bodied with aromas of fresh key lime, green guava, salted yuzu and freshly crushed oyster shells. The aromatics finish with floral notes of gardenia and a zip of bracing acidity. 

From our 2023 Bottle Club Notes:

Zarate Albariño, Val do Salnes, Rias Baixas, Spain 2022

Val do Salnes in Spain's Rias Baixas region is the revered birthplace of Albariño, Galicia’s most famous wine. Established in 1707, Zárate has a deep connection to this terroir. The region's undulating slopes and weathered granite soils offer excellent drainage and contribute to the wine's distinct mineral qualities. Influenced by the cool climate and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, Albariño thrives with vibrant acidity and delicate aromatics. Optimal conditions for cultivation are created by the region's long growing season, abundant rainfall, and viticultural heritage dating back centuries. Notably, Zárate's vineyards include the oldest documented Albariño vineyard, El Palomar, planted in 1850, alongside other esteemed sites.
Winemakers Eulogio Pomares and Rebeca Montero's winemaking philosophy revolves around organic and sustainable practices. Since 2000, they have abstained from using artificial fertilizers and herbicides, incorporating herbal infusions to combat mildew and pests. With minimal sulfur usage, their focus is on allowing the natural characteristics of the grapes and terroir to shine.  The vines, which are meticulously trained on granite pergolas at a low density, draw from the estate's various vineyard parcels. Hand-harvested, the grapes undergo vinification with ambient yeasts, spending six months on fine lees in tank, lending complexity and vibrancy to their wines.
Zárate's flagship Albariño showcases uncommon depth and richness. It exhibits a delightful mix of citrus, melon, and tropical fruits like fresh key lime and green guava, along with a sea-salt minerality and round body. Pair Zárate Albariño with savory seafood dishes like grilled shrimp or scallops to accentuate its coastal character. Its herbal and brooding profile also complements earthy flavors such as jamón de ibérico and hard cheeses. — Cara Patricia