Raíces Albillo | 2022

In Spain, there are more than 70 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