Zarate 'El Palomar' Albariño, Rias Baixas, Spain 2024

Zárate is one of the historic benchmarks of Rías Baixas, a family estate in the Val do Salnés with viticultural roots dating back to the early 1700s. Over generations, the Zárate family has helped elevate Albariño from a local curiosity to one of Spain’s most respected white varieties. Their single-vineyard bottlings showcase the nuanced expressions of old pergola-trained vines grown near the Atlantic. 'El Palomar' is a parcel selection emphasizing mineral tension, energy, and refined texture.

• WINEMAKER: Eulogio Pomares

• FARMING: The estate practices low-intervention viticulture. Historically since at least 1994 they have maintained no-till soils, permanent natural cover crops (various herbs), no herbicides or synthetic fertilizers, and minimal sulphur/copper treatments — in line with organic/biodynamic or “natural” vineyard philosophy.

• VARIETY: 100% Albariño

• TERROIR: Single-vineyard fruit from Rías Baixas in the Val do Salnés, influenced by Atlantic winds and cooling coastal fogs with granite-based soils that drive freshness and mineral character.

• VINIFICATION/AGING: Unlike many Albariños that go straight to stainless steel, El Palomar is fermented and aged in a single large old oak foudre (22 hectolitre, Vosges / Seguin Moreau) rather than stainless steel. The must rests 6 months on the gross lees in the foudre, then after racking it returns to the vat for 3 additional months on fine lees.

• TASTING NOTES: Bright aromas of lime zest, green apple, white peach, and sea spray. The palate is crisp and layered, with vibrant acidity, saline minerality, subtle texture, and a focused, mouthwatering finish.

• FOOD PAIRINGS: Ideal with oysters, razor clams, grilled octopus, ceviche, or simple seafood preparations.