In Spain, there are more than 400 indigenous varieties spread throughout 60 wine regions. Raíces dedicates their production to 20 of these grapes, in 15 regions, working mostly with high-altitude vineyards in desolate villages. Albillo (Mayor) is synonymous to the Castilla y León region, with the Ribera del Duero DO recently approving it for white wine production. In Cigales, winemakers have historically used it as a blending grape with Tempranillo and Verdejo to make rosé wines. Fermented in large old barrels and aged on its lees for six months, Albillo shows similarities to mineral-high, Chardonnay. It arouses the senses with poached fruits, clotted cream, and slivers of chestnut and stone. It’s generous, yet taut, with a core of nerves that has you wondering… can this be Burgundy? Considering Albillo’s trendy demand and limited availability, it tends to be pricey ($75 and-up a bottle). Raíces offers a foolproof opportunity to taste one of Spain’s most thrilling white grapes at a very friendly price. ~Allegra A
