2022 Viña Mein O Gran Meín Blanco

The history of Viña Mein and the identity of Ribeiro

Viña Mein, now known as Viña Mein – Emilio Rojo , is a leading winery in the historic DO Ribeiro in Galicia, northwestern Spain. The estate is rooted in the Avia Valley, where viticulture has been part of the cultural landscape for centuries. Ribeiro is known for its minifundist structure: a patchwork of small, individual vineyard plots. This division has contributed to a great variety of grape varieties and micro-terroirs – a characteristic that Viña Mein fully embraces in its philosophy.

The region has a pronounced Atlantic climate, with relatively cool temperatures and regular rainfall, which produces fresh, elegant wines with aromatic complexity. Viña Mein combines traditional values with modern precision and respect for ecology, producing wines that are both locally rooted and internationally recognized.

A warm wine year with extreme conditions

The 2022 vintage will be remembered in Ribeiro as one of the warmest in recent decades. A dry winter was followed by wet and cold months in March and April, which caused late budding of the vines. May brought abrupt increases in temperature above 35°C, followed by an extremely hot summer with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C.

Despite these challenging conditions, the vineyard managed to adapt. The grapes reached excellent physiological ripeness. The harvest took place from 30th August to 12th September – relatively early, but perfectly timed to maintain freshness and balance and the vintage received one of the highest scores from international wine critics (94/100)

The vineyards of Meín: a mosaic of grape varieties

O Gran Meín Castes Brancas 2022 is a tribute to the traditional grape varieties of Ribeiro. The wine is composed of treixadura , godello , albariño , torrontés , loureira , caíño blanco and lado – all grape varieties that are characteristic of this region, but rarely found together in a single wine.

The grapes come from small plots around the village of Meín. Each plot is located on a specific slope, with its own exposure and soil type. The viticulture is completely ecological and each grape variety is harvested and vinified separately, so that the character of each component is preserved. This approach – typical of the 'colleiteiro' style – ensures that the final blend is a true reflection of the diversity of the Avia Valley.

Vinification and maturation of O Gran Meín Blanco 2022

After a manual harvest in 12 kg crates, the grapes are selected by variety and plot and pressed whole. For the smaller plots, the crushing is even done by hand. Only the first must – the purest juice fraction – is used for the final wine.

Fermentation takes place batch by batch and in various barrels: stainless steel, concrete, French oak and even traditional damajuanas (large glass bottles). After 12 months of maturation on the fine lees in these different materials, the wine is carefully assembled. It then rests for another 12 months in the bottle to fully express itself. A minimal amount of sulphites is added for optimum shelf life.

Color, aroma and taste of O Gran Meín Blanco 2022

O Gran Meín 2022 shows itself in the glass with a light yellow color and a brilliant shine. The nose is initially subdued, with notes of citrus, white flowers and green herbs. After aeration, a lively complexity emerges with fresh stone fruits, anise and a hint of saltiness.

In the mouth the wine is dry, intense and very elegant. The fresh acidity and light salty touch give tension, while the ripe grape aromas, spiciness and subtle wood influences provide depth. The texture is silky, the finish long and layered. This wine is not just a blend, but a story about origin, variety and craftsmanship in balance.

Would you like to order Viña Mein wines online?

The exclusive O Gran Meín Blanco 2022 is available via our webshop and is stored in our conditioned Wine Warehouse. If you choose to collect your order, you often benefit from a nice discount. This is automatically displayed as soon as you choose 'Collect' on the checkout page.
We are located in Dordrecht, directly on the A16, with ample parking. Click here for our address.

All technical information, specifications and any additional images can be found in the Appendix tab. Full tasting notes from leading international wine critics such as Parker, Suckling and Vinous are available on our website via the links next to the product image. This service is completely free for Grandcruwijnen customers.

Are you looking for a wine that perfectly matches your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. This service is free for our customers.

Wine and food pairings with O Gran Meín Blanco 2022

• Grilled langoustines with lime butter and samphire
  The freshness and salty structure of the wine enhances the minerality of the shellfish and the salty greenery.

• Baked halibut with tarragon and beurre blanc
  The refined fatty structure of halibut perfectly matches the soft texture and spiciness of the wine.

• Risotto with green asparagus, lemon and Pecorino
  The creamy risotto is balanced by the refreshing acidity of the wine, while the asparagus creates a natural connection with the vegetable notes.

• Ceviche of sea bream with grapefruit, ginger and coriander
  The wine's vibrant acidity and citrus aromas accentuate the freshness of the ceviche without overpowering it.

• Tagliatelle with wild mushrooms, sage and light cream sauce
  The earthy flavours of the mushrooms resonate with the subtle complexity of the blend, while the creamy structure remains beautifully balanced.

• Terrine of foie gras with apple compote and toast
  The fresh acidity and floral notes of the wine contrast elegantly with the creaminess and intensity of the dish, creating a surprisingly harmonious whole.