Albamar O Esteiro 2023

Albamar is a family winery led by Xurxo Alba Padín in Cambados, in the Val do Salnés corner of Rías Baixas, better known for white Albariño than for red. O Esteiro is a red blend of the native Mencía, Caíño Tinto and Espadeiro grown beside the mouth of the Umia, where the vineyards sit close to the sea. The cool, damp Atlantic climate and the constant sea breeze ripen these grapes slowly and keep alcohol low, while the granite and sandy soils lend a saline, mineral edge. These are naturally high-acid, light-bodied reds, and the wine spends just eight months in French oak so the fruit and freshness stay to the fore. The colour is bright ruby. The nose shows red berries, cherry and redcurrant over black pepper, dried herbs and a faint sea-salt note. The palate is light and fresh, the tannins fine and the acidity vivid, the red fruit carried by a savoury, briny lift into a clean finish. This is an Atlantic red built for the table and best served lightly cool. Serve at 14 to 15 degrees. It suits grilled oily fish, roast chicken and pork.