Alberto Nanclares 2024

Alberto Nanclares left economics for the vineyard and settled in Cambados, where his minimal-intervention project has become one of the leading names of Rías Baixas for quality and detail, now run as Bodegas Nanclares Prieto. This is a single-variety Albariño from vineyards in the Salnés valley. The valley lies close to the Atlantic, and its cool, wet, breezy climate gives slow ripening and high natural acidity, while the sandy granite soils drain freely and lend a saline minerality. The wine is aged on its lees, and keeping it in contact with the fine lees builds texture and a subtle savoury depth through the slow release of mannoproteins, adding weight to the palate while the low-intervention handling keeps the fruit and the sense of place intact. The colour is pale lemon with a green tint. The nose is bright and saline, with lemon, white peach and green apple over white flowers. The palate is dry and textured, its citrus and orchard fruit carried by firm acidity and a long, briny finish. Serve well chilled at 9 to 11 degrees. It is a natural partner for shellfish and grilled fish.