The nose is complex, with mineral and salinity notes alongside peach, flowers, fresh herbs and citrus tones. In the mouth it is flavorful yet refreshing with the aromas translating onto flavors. The palate is medium to medium-plus in body with a round creaminess from the lees contact. The finish is long and persistent.

WINE INFORMATION

Galicia, located in the northwest corner of Spain, has five Denominación de Origen (DO)—Monterrei, Rías Baixas, Ribeira Sacra, Ribeiro, and Valdeorras.  Recently, the region has received increased international acclaim due to fine Albariño wines produced in Rías Baixas.  Rías Baixas’ climate is Atlantic, with wet winters and sea fog.  In general rainfall is high and the temperatures are mild.  Strong winds can occasionally cause problems for the vineyards, especially those located on the west face of the coast.  Frosts, hailstones and summer heat can also cause complications.

Bodegas La Val, one of the first wineries in Rias Baixas, was established in 1985. Unusual for the area, La Val produces its wines only from estate grown grapes. They own 150 acres of Albariño most of which are located in the Condado do Tea sub-region. The vineyards are trained in the pergola system which, in this very humid and rainy climate, allows for better air flow and ripening. The particular microclimate of their main holding in Condado do Tea allows them to be the first winery to open the harvest. Jose Maria Ureta, the current winemaker, and is becoming one of the up-and-coming stars of the region.

Grapes from this wine come from the vineyard “Finca Arantei” which gives the wine its name. After hand-harvesting, the grapes undergo a cold maceration for 6 hours at 10ºC (50ºF). Then they are lightly pressed to obtain the must. Temperature controlled fermentation from native yeast by applying the process known as “pie de cuba” in stainless steel tanks. Afterwards, the wine matures for three months with its own lees.

Cheese, Chicken/Turkey, Cream Sauce Pasta, East Asian (Chinese/Japanese/Korean), Fish (white), Fondue, Green Salads, Grilled preparations, Ham, Hors d'oeuvres, Just for Cocktailing, Perfect Aperitif , Shellfish, Spicy Food, Sushi, Tapas, Vegetables