Albarino, a.k.a., Alvarinho, is hot. This refresher from Iberia is becoming more visible in America, with more imports from abroad and more plantings on the homefront.
Condes de Albarei, Rias Baixas DO, Albarino 2007 Fully aromatic and lip smacking with a sweet/tart character – delicious. Check that – I don’t mean that the wine is literally sweet, but rather the fruit is vibrant and the acidity is electric – yes, that’s better. This brand is a cooperative effort of growers in the Salnes Valley. P&B in Cambados 12.5% $12.69 at Bottle Barn Condes de Albarei
Ca’ del Solo, Monterey County, Estate Vineyard, Albarino 2007
Quite floral and tart like a lime; refreshing for the heat. Biodynamic grapes grown near the penitentiary at Soledad and bottled under screwcap. We tasted this again in Oct. ’08 and it was just as fresh. P&B in Santa Cruz 12.5% $15.99 at Bottle Barn Ca’ del Solo