Albamar Capitan Xurelo 2022

Albamar was founded by Xurxo Alba, a winegrower in Cambados in the Salnés valley of Rías Baixas, a region far better known for white Albariño than for red. Capitán Xurelo is a rare Atlantic red, blending Mencía with the local Caíño Tinto and Espadeiro across just three hectares of vineyard. The cool, wet Atlantic climate and the granite soils of Salnés give the wine a fresh, lifted character, with high natural acidity and a saline tang that reflects the maritime setting, while the cooler ripening keeps the alcohol low at 12.5 percent and the fruit on the red and tart side rather than ripe and jammy. The wine ages for 12 months in French oak, which softens the structure and lends a light spice while letting the fresh fruit lead. It pours a bright, light ruby and shows raspberry, red cherry and redcurrant on the nose, with cracked pepper, wild herbs and a salty mineral edge. The palate is light and energetic, with crisp acidity, fine tannins and a savoury finish. Serve cool, at 14 to 15 degrees. It suits roast poultry, grilled oily fish and game birds.