2020 Raul Pérez Los Arrotos del Pendón Albarin

History of the winery and owners

Raúl Pérez is one of Spain's most influential winemakers. His career began at the family business in Bierzo, but he quickly forged his own path, with a strong focus on terroir and local grape varieties. Pérez is known for his uncompromising style: small productions, old vines, minimal intervention in the cellar, and maximum precision. He collaborates with local farmers in various regions and focuses on revitalizing forgotten grape varieties. In the case of Los Arrotos del Pendón Albarín, everything revolves around the rediscovery of the rare Albarín Blanco.

Tierra de León region: climate and location

The vineyards are located in the Tierra de León subregion, south of León, at an altitude of approximately 800 meters. The continental climate is characterized by hot summers and cold winters, with significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. This allows the grapes to retain their fresh acidity while simultaneously allowing them to fully ripen their aromas. The soil consists of a mix of clay, gravel, and limestone – a combination that gives the wine strength, structure, and elegance. The high altitude and poor soils are ideal for the Albarin grape, which reaches its full potential here.

Albarin grape and manual harvest

The grape used, Albarín Blanco, is a native variety found only in a few locations in northern Spain. The grapes for this wine come from old, low-yielding vines. Harvesting is entirely manual, with strict selection based on ripeness and health. Early picking at optimal aromatic ripeness and freshness lays the foundation for a wine with tension, elegance, and length.

Fermentation and maturation under flor

Fermentation occurs spontaneously, without the addition of commercial yeasts, in large, used 500-liter oak barrels. Alcoholic fermentation is followed by maturation for several months on the fine lees. During this period, a thin layer of flor forms – a natural yeast layer also known from the production of fino sherry. This flor protects the wine from oxidation and gives it added depth, a subtle salinity, and a complex texture. The wine is bottled unfined and unfiltered.

Color, odor and flavor profile

In the glass, the wine displays a clear, pale yellow color with green highlights. The aroma is expressive and layered: citrus zest, lime, white flowers, wet stone, and a hint of fennel. Swirling reveals notes of beeswax, herbs, and a subtle floral influence.

The palate is dry, lively, and intensely mineral. The high acidity is perfectly balanced by a round texture and light floral bitterness. The finish is long, tight, and complex with salty notes and nuances of grapefruit and green herbs. This style offers freshness and energy on the one hand, and structure and depth on the other – making it suitable for both pure consumption and gastronomic applications.

Would you like to order Raúl Pérez wines online?

In the "Attachments" tab, you'll find the official fact sheet for this fine wine. We'll automatically send it to you when you order it. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at checkout. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway with ample parking. Click here for our address .

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wine and food suggestions

1. Grilled sea bream with fennel and orange peel
The salty freshness of the wine enhances the soft texture of the fish, while the citrus notes lift the whole.

2. Risotto with green asparagus and lemon
The creamy texture of the risotto contrasts beautifully with the acidity and floral spiciness of the wine.

3. Scallop carpaccio with yuzu and dill
The wine's refined aromas complement the delicate character of raw scallop and the citrus aroma of yuzu.

4. Fried chicken thigh with tarragon and mustard sauce
The floral notes and acidity of the wine cut beautifully through the creamy mustard sauce and enhance the spiciness of the tarragon.

5. Light sea bass ceviche with cilantro and lime
The citrus aromas of the wine interact vibrantly with the acidity and spice of the ceviche.

6. Roasted cauliflower with harissa and pomegranate seeds
The spicy and slightly smoky flavours are softened and refreshed by the wine's lively acidity and light floral bitterness.