Albamar O Esteiro Caíño 2021

Albamar is a family winery in Cambados, in the Salnés valley of D.O. Rías Baixas, run since 2006 by Xurxo Alba Padín. The vineyards sit close to the mouth of the Umía river, and the constant Atlantic breeze that defines this maritime corner of Galicia is central to the wine. Caíño Tinto is a thick-skinned, late-ripening Atlantic variety that holds very high natural acidity, which the cool, damp climate preserves; the result is a red of modest 12.5 per cent alcohol with real freshness and grip. The fruit is aged eight months in French oak, a restrained period that softens the firm tannins and integrates the wood without covering the grape's character. The colour is a bright medium ruby. The nose leads with red currant, sour cherry and crushed violet, lifted by a savoury, almost briny mineral note that reflects the seaside soils. On the palate it is light to medium bodied, taut and crisp, with red-fruit acidity, fine grainy tannin and a peppery, salt-tinged finish. Serve at 14 to 16 degrees. It suits grilled oily fish, seafood rice and roast poultry.