Albariño (2024) - La Val
In the heart of Galicia, among the mists and salty Atlantic breezes, lies the La Val winery, a jewel of the Rías Baixas DO. Here Albariño is more than just a grape variety: it is a symbol of resistance and innovation. In the '80s, when Galician winegrowing was in decline, La Val was one of the first wineries to bet on the potential of Albariño, helping to turn Rías Baixas into one of the most renowned wine regions in Spain. Legend has it that centuries ago Cistercian monks brought the first Albariño vines to Galicia, believing the soil and the climate to be similar to those of their beloved Burgundy.
Albariño (2024) - La Val
Type: Vino Bianco
Area: Spain, Galicia, Rías Baixas
Appellation: Rías Baixas DO
Grape variety: Albariño
Vintage: 2024
Winery: La Val
Alcohol: 13%
The appellation: Rías Baixas DO
Rías Baixas DO is one of the most prestigious appellations in Spain, located in the region of Galicia, in the north-west of the country. Known as the home of the Albariño grape, this appellation is synonymous with fresh, aromatic, mineral wines, shaped by the influence of the Atlantic Ocean and by a unique terroir.
Find out more about Rías Baixas DOWhat to eat with Albariño
Who makes it: La Val
La Val is a winery in the beautiful region of Galicia, in the Rías Baixas area of Spain. This winery is known for its dedication to making high-quality wines that reflect the uniqueness of the land and the local winemaking tradition. La Val is especially renowned for its white wines, which express the freshness and complexity typical of Rías Baixas DO.
Read more about La ValThe vine of Albariño
Albariño
Albariño is one of the most iconic white grape varieties of the Iberian peninsula, known for its aromatic, fresh and mineral wines. Native to Galicia, in north-western Spain, and also widespread in Portugal, where it is known as Alvarinho, Albariño is the beating heart of the Rías Baixas DO appellation and of Vinho Verde production.
Find out moreAlbariño: the Rías Baixas area
Rías Baixas
The Rías Baixas are one of the most famous wine regions in Spain, in Galicia, along the north-western coast. This unique territory stands out for its spectacular landscapes, characterised by rías (coastal inlets), verdant hills and an Atlantic climate that gives the wines an unmistakable freshness and minerality. The region is celebrated in particular for the Albariño grape, which produces aromatic, elegant white wines with marked acidity.
Find out more about Rías BaixasClimate: Oceanic
Altitude: Low to mid altitude (200–500 m above sea level)
Soil: Sandy / Silty
Geographical setting: Coast
Profile of Albariño
Primary aromas: Citrus, White flowers
Secondary aromas: Marine and iodine notes
Tasting notes: A fresh, lively wine with notes of citrus and white flowers, typical of the Rías Baixas region.
| Sulphites | yes |
| Body | Fresh |
| Acidity | Medium-high |
| Tannin | Absent |
| Sweetness | Dry |
| Finish | Media |
| Colour | Straw yellow with pale green highlights |
| Clarity | Clear |
Winemaking methods used for Albariño
Stainless steel winemaking for freshness and aromas
Stainless steel winemaking is a modern, versatile technique, particularly prized for producing fresh, aromatic and lively wines. Thanks to the use of stainless steel tanks, fermentation takes place in a neutral, controlled environment, preserving the primary characteristics of the grape variety and of the terroir as fully as possible. This approach makes it possible to obtain wines that clearly express their varietal personality and a pleasant lightness.What is Stainless Steel Winemaking? Stainless steel winemaking involves the use of stainless steel tanks during alcoholic fermentation and, often, during ageing as well. These vessels guarantee a hygienic, controlled environment, free from outside influences that might alter the aromatic profile of the wine. What is more, precise temperature control helps develop fresh, fruity aromas, avoiding oxidation or unwanted fermentations. Advantages of Stainless Steel WinemakingPreserving freshness: the primary aromas of the grape variety remain intact. Temperature control: it allows slow, steady fermentations, bringing out the aromas and the structure. Aromatic purity: stainless steel adds no outside flavours, guaranteeing an authentic product.Stages of Stainless Steel Winemaking 1. Harvest and Pressing The grapes are picked at the right degree of ripeness and gently pressed to obtain a clean, high-quality must. 2. Settling the Must The must is clarified to remove any solid residues, ensuring a clean fermentation. 3. Fermentation in Stainless Steel Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, with strict temperature control (generally between 10°C and 18°C for whites and rosés). 4. Stabilisation After fermentation, the wine is left to rest in the tanks to refine and stabilise, before bottling.Characteristics of the Resulting Wines ColourWhites: bright straw yellow with greenish highlights. Rosés: delicate tones of pale pink or salmon. Light reds: pale ruby red with lively transparency.AromasFruity: notes of citrus, peach, green apple and berries. Floral: hints of white flowers, violets or dog rose. Mineral: fresh, saline nuances, typical of certain terroirs.TasteFresh and lively: with balanced acidity and a light body. Harmonious: perfect for drinking young and informally.Grape Varieties Ideal for Stainless Steel Winemaking White Grape VarietiesVermentino: perfect for bringing out freshness and minerality. Sauvignon Blanc: aromatic and vibrant, with citrus and tropical fruit notes.Black Grape VarietiesPinot Nero: ideal for rosés and light, elegant reds. Montepulciano: perfect for fresh, fruity rosés.Why Choose a Wine Made in Stainless Steel? A wine made in stainless steel is the essence of freshness and varietal purity, perfect for anyone looking for intense aromas, liveliness and lightness. Ideal for aperitifs, light dishes and convivial moments, these wines are a true tribute to nature and to the quality of the grapes.
Find out moreAgeing methods used for Albariño
In stainless steel
Ageing in stainless steel is a winemaking practice aimed at preserving the freshness, aromatic integrity and varietal purity of the wine. It is used above all for white, rosé and young red wines, but also for light, easy-drinking reds that do not require maturation in wood. Stainless steel vessels are inert and impermeable to oxygen, so they do not interact with the wine: this makes it possible to bring out the fruity, floral and mineral component of the grape and of the terroir.
Find out moreTime on the lees for Albariño
- No contact with the lees