2024 Albamar Albariño

Finely balanced 2024 Albamar Albariño with fresh mineral notes, ideal for lovers of pure white wines.

History and region of Bodegas Albamar

Bodegas Albamar is a family-owned winery in Cambados, Galicia, that has been producing Albariño for generations. Luis Alba, originally a bricklayer, planted vineyards around his house to sell bulk wine locally in a furancho tavern. In 2006, his son Xurxo took over after completing his oenological studies. Since then, the name Albamar has been used, a portmanteau of the Alba family name and the word for sea, "mar." The vineyards are located in the O Salnés subregion, within the DO Rías Baixas, near the Atlantic coast on sandy-granite soil.

Owners, climate and vineyard layout of Albamar

Xurxo Alba manages approximately 10 hectares of its own vineyard plus sourcing an additional 10–13 hectares from small vineyards from local winegrowers, spread over small plots, often family-owned. The climate is maritime, with constant influences from the sea and fog; the soil consists of sand and granite. The location close to the Atlantic Ocean gives the wines remarkable freshness and minerality. Xurxo farms its vineyards organically or with minimal interventions and strives for maximum natural inspiration.

About the 2024 Albamar Albariño

Grapes, harvest, fermentation and aging

The 2024 'Albamar' is a blend of 100% Albariño, hand-picked from numerous small plots in the Salnés Valley. Fermentation occurs spontaneously with indigenous yeasts. Part of the wine is aged in neutral foudres (large barrels) combined with steel tanks, where the wine remains "sur lie" for eight months (foudres) or five to six months (stainless steel). Malolactic fermentation is blocked to preserve the fresh acidity and maritime notes.

Color, smell and taste of the 2024 Albamar Albariño

Color: Pale yellow-green, clear and radiant. Nose: Aromas of beeswax, wet stones, white flowers, lime, green apple, and mandarin, with a subtle marine minerality. Palate: Spiky and crisp, with fresh fruit notes such as Granny Smith, Meyer lemon, and pineapple, a light, creamy texture from lees aging, followed by a salty, lingering finish.

Why this wine is loved by serious connoisseurs and sommeliers

This Albamar Albariño displays an elegant balance between marine freshness and texture. The organic process, indigenous yeasts, and lees aging lend complexity without artificiality. Its high acidity and mineral length make it an ideal accompaniment to refined fish and shellfish dishes. The combination of accessibility and depth makes it a compelling choice for sommeliers.

Wine and food pairings with 2024 Albamar Albariño

• Grilled sea bream with lemon, olive oil and fresh parsley: the fresh acidity and saltiness enhance the delicate fish.
• Avocado, cucumber and green apple salad: the fruitiness and sparkle of the wine bring balance and refreshment.
• Risotto with fennel and shrimp: structures and supports the salty notes, the creamy risotto enhances the texture.
• Stuffed zucchini flowers with soft goat's cheese: subtle herbs and salty notes allow the aromas of the wine to work beautifully.
• Luxury: Scallops with butter, lemon and a hint of garlic: the intensity and freshness of the wine accentuate the gentle shellfish journey.
• Luxury: Scallop carpaccio with dill and citrus oil: the refined freshness and salty profile of the wine enhance the luxury of the dish.