Santiago Ruiz - Albariño 2017
Pairing Suggestions
Santiago Ruiz – Albariño (86 tsomw points)
Blend of 70% Albariño, 10% Caíño, 12% Godello, 10% Loureiro and 8% Treixadura.
The DO Rías Baixas is located in the northwest of Spain, in the Galicia region. This area just above Portugal, characterized by a humid and cool maritime climate, enjoys a worldwide reputation for white wine. This reputation is mainly due to the cult status of the Albariño, a white, early ripening grape that is responsible for 90% of the plantings in the area.
The Santiago Ruiz estate makes wine in O Rosal, one of the five subzones of Rías Baixas, which is separated from the Portuguese Vinho Verde only by the River Miño. The property has about 38 hectares of vineyards, planted with mainly albariño and also some loureiro, treixadura, godello and caiño blanco. It is the combination of all these grapes that gives the wine its specific character. The main role is of course reserved for the prestigious albariño grape, which dominates the assembly by about 70%. Pay attention to the special label of the wine: The card is signed by Rosa Ruiz, the daughter of Santiago who now runs the domain. She celebrated her wedding on the property and signed the card to show her guests the way. As soon as her father saw the card, he decided to make it the label of his wine. The text on the label is Santiago's own handwriting.
Tasting notes:
In the glass a bright yellow color.
On the nose intense aromas of citrus fruit, pear and plums with hints of anise and mineral notes.
On the palate medium/full-bodied with nice balanced acidity and light velvety showing flavours of stonefruit and tropical fruits with nice freshness. The medium finish shows a light bitterness and spicyness.
I paired it with baked vegetables and pesto spaghetti but would also pair great with fish. Cheers