Benito Santos Albarino 2022

Pale straw with an intense, aromatic nose of ripe, white fruit and floral notes. Dry and fresh on the palate, excellent well-rounded structure and a long, pure finish. (2021 - abv 13%)

Benito Santos is a central figure in the modern history of Albarino and the Rias Baixas DO. He began working in his grandfather's vineyards in the 1930's making wine for his bar. In the 1960's he repeatedly won prizes in the Annual Fiesta de Albarino in Cambados and was instrumental in the creation of the DO in the 1980's.

In his work he showed sincerity and a respect for nature (organic farming) enabling the wines to show the character of their terroir. Benito Santos believed that "wine should be made in the vineyard not in the winery." The current winemaker Jose Antonio Porto concurs and carries on the tradition.

The 12 hectares are situated by the sea in the Val do Salnes sub region, one of five in the Rias Baixas DO, benefiting from the mild Atlantic climate, to produce wines of freshness, structure and minerality.

The three Albarino vineyards in Val do Salnes are named after their neighbouring ancient churches and are certified organic, a rarity in this rainy, mildew prone region. Vines are trained on the traditional trellis and are picked by hand in small trays. Winemaking uses only natural yeasts and minimal sulphur.

The Albarino vines grow on granitic sandy clay soils are trellised and 30 years of age. Hand-picked and matured for 6 months on its lees before bottling.