Winemaker Notes
Albillo is a catch-all name for a diverse collection of white grape varieties in Spain. Since the name derives from the Spanish word for white, Albillo can differ from region to region and can even be used for different varieties within a single D.O.! For example, in Ribera del Duero, several ancient varieties are called Albillo. Jorge makes it simple. He only selects Albillo with small clusters and a deep golden color when fully ripe to make his Blanco.
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The one white (there will be a special cuvée sold exclusively in Spain, first produced in 2019, a white put through malolactic), the 2018 Albillo Viñas Viejas is a superb and elegant varietal Albillo Mayor produced in a very Burgundian way (but without malolactic). It has 13% alcohol and a pH of 3.04 and is medium-bodied with moderate ripeness; it's very spicy and has notes of toasted sesame seeds, hints of white flowers and fruit and a citrus twist. It fermented and matured in French oak barrels for 25 months. This is by far the best white from the region and one of the finest table whites from Spain. 5,455 bottles and 98 magnums produced. It was bottled in September 2021.
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James Suckling
Aromas of wild blackberry, pine cone, clove, graphite and dark chocolate. Some praline and stroopwafel, too. It’s medium-to full-bodied with firm, sleek tannins. Spice and hot stones on the finish. From organically grown grapes.
There are hundreds of white grape varieties grown throughout the world. Some are indigenous specialties capable of producing excellent single varietal wines. Each has its own distinct viticultural characteristics, as well as aroma and flavor profiles.
Ribera del Duero, Spanish wine region, is located in northen Spain’s Castilla y León region, just a 2-hour drive from Madrid. While winemaking in this area goes back more than 2000 years, it was in the 1980s that 9 wineries applied for and were granted Denominación de Origen (D.O.) status. Today, more than 300 wineries call Ribera del Duero home, including some of Spain’s most iconic names.
Notable Facts Ribera’s main grape variety, Tempranillo, locally know as Tinto Fino, is perfectly suited to the extreme climate of the region, where it must survive scorching summers and frigid winters. Low yields resulting from conscientious tending to old vines planted in Ribera’s diverse soils types, give Ribera wines a distinctive depth and complexity not found in other Tempranillos. Rich and full-bodied, the spice, dark fruit and smoky flavors in a bold Ribera del Duero will pair well with roasted and grilled meats, Mexican food and tomato-based sauces.