Winemaker Notes
Intense, classic aromas of citrus, lime and white peach , with floral overtones of honeysuckle and a minerality reminiscent of wet stones. Fresh, lively and mouthfilling, with bright acidity that follows through with an elegant, crip finish.
Serve at 45°- 48° F with raw or grilled seafood (it's a classic with oysters and clams), smoked salmon, sushi and Asian cuisine -and for sure, with tapas!
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
Inspired by the producer's homeland of Spain and grown in a cool spot in appellation, this does justice to the variety grown. Lemon, peach and wet stone accents highlight a creamy midpalate, with balanced intensity and energy from the vibrant acidity.
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Wine Spectator
Lemon meringue, orange sherbet and yellow apple flavors are juicy and appealing, with a subtle citrus blossom aroma and snappy acidity on a medium body. Finishes on a spicy note.
Bright and aromatic with distinctive floral and fruity characteristics, Albariño has enjoyed a surge in popularity and an increase in plantings over the last couple of decades. Thick skins allow it to withstand the humid conditions of its homeland, Rías Baixas, Spain, free of malady, and produce a weighty but fresh white. Somm Secret—Albariño claims dual citizenship in Spain and Portugal. Under the name Alvarinho, it thrives in Portugal’s northwestern Vinho Verde region, which predictably, borders part of Spain’s Rías Baixas.
A standout region for its decidedly Californian take on Burgundian varieties, the Russian River Valley is named for the eponymous river that flows through it. While there are warm pockets of the AVA, it is mostly a cool-climate growing region thanks to breezes and fog from the nearby Pacific Ocean.
Chardonnay and Pinot Noir reign supreme in Russian River, with the best examples demonstrating a unique combination of richness and restraint. The cool weather makes Russian River an ideal AVA for sparkling wine production, utilizing the aforementioned varieties. Zinfandel also performs exceptionally well here. Within the Russian River Valley lie the smaller appellations of Chalk Hill and Green Valley. The former, farther from the ocean, is relatively warm, with a focus on red and white Bordeaux varieties. The latter is the coolest, foggiest parcel of the Russian River Valley and is responsible for outstanding Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.