A single vineyard wine from Marlborough – an example of this Northern Spanish grape variety producing great wines in New Zealand – winning the Trophy (and a Double Gold medal) for Champion ‘Other Whites’ at NZIWS in 2022. I don’t know if Albariño will develop into a variety as widely drunk as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, but it shows enough potential to be in with a shout against Pinot Gris and Riesling.
A very pale green-straw colour in the glass, with a fragrance filled with red apple, melon, nectarine, lime zest and honeysuckle. Dry, but with a hint of fruit sweetness and roundness on the palate. Refreshing acidity has the flavours bounding along, coursing through more citrus and green herbs notes along the way. Plenty of energy and generosity, it finishes a little short – but that isn’t a huge problem for this drink-now, food-friendly drop. 90pts
