2024 Do Ferreiro - Albarino Rias Baixas (750ml)
Gerardo Méndez began making wine on the family estate of La Casa Grande de Galiñanes in Meaño back in 1973, and he later became one of just fourteen growers who helped establish the Rías Baixas denomination in 1988. Do Ferreiro remains a family affair today, with Méndez's son Manuel and daughter Encarna now working alongside him to continue the estate's focus on pure, terroir-driven Albariño.
This bottling is drawn from more than 160 tiny parcels of Albariño scattered across the Salnés Valley, farmed organically on decomposed granite soils close to the Atlantic coast. The grapes are hand-harvested, destemmed, given a brief cold maceration, and pressed before fermenting spontaneously with native yeasts in stainless steel. The wine then rests on its fine lees for several months without malolactic fermentation, preserving the bright, saline character that defines the region.
The wine offers lemon zest, green apple, and white flowers on the nose, framed by a distinct saline edge reminiscent of oyster shell. The palate is light-bodied yet grippy, with lively acidity and a long, mineral finish. It's a natural match for grilled shrimp, steamed clams, or a bright seafood ceviche.