2022 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 in the family business in Bierzo, but he soon 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, it is all about 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 strong temperature fluctuations between day and night. As a result, the grapes retain their fresh acidity while simultaneously ripening fully and aromatically. The soil consists of a mix of clay, gravel, and limestone—a combination that ensures power, structure, and elegance in the wine. The high altitude and poor soils are ideal for the Albarín grape, which reaches its full potential here.

Albarín grape and manual harvest

The grape used, Albarín Blanco, is an indigenous variety found in only a few places in Northern Spain. The grapes for this wine come from old, low-yielding vines. The harvest is carried out entirely by hand, with strict selection based on ripeness and health. By picking early at optimal aromatic ripeness and freshness, the foundation is laid for a wine with tension, elegance, and length.

Fermentation and aging under flor

Fermentation occurs spontaneously, without the addition of commercial yeasts, in large, used 500-liter oak barrels. Following alcoholic fermentation, the wine ages 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 against oxidation and gives it extra depth, a subtle salinity, and a complex texture. The wine is bottled unfined and unfiltered.

Color, aroma and taste profile

In the glass, the wine displays a clear, light yellow color with green reflections. The aroma is expressive and layered: citrus zest, lime, white flowers, wet stone, and a hint of fennel. After swirling, notes of beeswax, herbs, and a subtle flor influence emerge.

The taste is dry, lively, and intensely mineral. The high acidity is perfectly balanced by a round texture and light floral bitterness. The finish is long, crisp, and complex with briny accents 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.

Order wines from Raúl Pérez online?

In the 'Attachments' tab, you will find the official factsheet for this fine wine. We will automatically send this to you upon ordering this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you come to collect the wine, you will often receive a nice discount. You will see your discount immediately when you select 'Pick up' on the checkout page. We are located in Dordrecht, situated almost next to the A16 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 briny freshness of the wine enhances the soft texture of the fish, while the citrus accents 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 refined aromas of the wine 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 coriander and lime
The citrus aromas of the wine engage in a lively interaction with the acidity and spices of the ceviche.

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