2023 Abellio Albarino, Rias Baixas

A simple, peachy albarino here with pears, seashells and a saline tang. Fleshy, peachy fruit with medium body and a light, saline finish. Drink now. Screw cap.

jamessuckling.com

The Abellio Albariño from Rías Baixas is a zesty, sea-breeze-kissed white wine that captures the spirit of Galicia’s rugged Atlantic coast. Sourced from vineyards in the heart of Val do Salnés, the coolest and most coastal sub-region of Rías Baixas, this wine is all about freshness, vibrancy, and varietal purity. The region's granite-rich soils, combined with salty ocean air and cool maritime breezes, are ideal for producing Albariño with electric acidity and a crisp mineral backbone.

Abellio is crafted by Adegas Terrae, a relatively young but focused winery that’s built a reputation on clean, expressive Albariño. Grapes are hand-harvested and fermented in stainless steel to preserve the purity of fruit and the tension of the acid line. The result? A wine that bursts with aromas of green apple, lime zest, white peach, and orange blossom, followed by a palate that dances with citrus, tangy stone fruits, and crushed oyster shell minerality. There’s a touch of salinity on the finish, like a wink from the Atlantic, making this wine incredibly moreish.

It’s the kind of Albariño that doesn’t need overthinking. Chill it down, pour it generously, and let it sing with fresh seafood. Think grilled sardines, scallop crudo, or a classic Galician pulpo a la gallega. It's also stellar with Vietnamese prawn rolls or even sushi.

Best enjoyed young for its vibrant character, but it will hold for 2 to 3 years if you’re curious to see its textural development.