Produced from 100% Albariño grown in the historic El Palomar vineyard in Val do Salnés, this wine is one of the most revered expressions of Albariño in Spain. The vineyard, planted around 1850, is home to some of the oldest documented pre-phylloxera Albariño vines in Rías Baixas. Situated on shallow sandy granite soils and farmed according to organic and biodynamic principles, the site consistently yields fruit of remarkable concentration, complexity and mineral precision. The vineyard takes its name from the granite dovecote (palomar) that overlooks the parcel.
The grapes are harvested by hand and carefully selected in the vineyard before gentle pressing. Unlike the estate’s village Albariño, El Palomar is fermented with indigenous yeasts in a large 2,200-litre French oak foudre and matured on its lees for approximately nine to ten months. Spontaneous malolactic fermentation is permitted when conditions allow, contributing additional texture and complexity while preserving the wine’s hallmark freshness and mineral character.
The 2024 vintage displays layered aromas of white peach, pear, citrus peel and lemon curd, complemented by notes of wild herbs, crushed granite, chamomile and sea spray. The palate is broad yet remarkably focused, combining ripe orchard fruit with a creamy texture derived from extended lees ageing. Beneath the richness lies a core of vibrant acidity and distinctive Atlantic minerality, carrying the wine towards a long, saline and exceptionally persistent finish.
A profound and age-worthy expression of Albariño, El Palomar demonstrates the extraordinary potential of old vines and single-vineyard terroir in Rías Baixas. While captivating in its youth, its structure and complexity allow it to develop beautifully over a decade or more. An exceptional companion to shellfish, lobster, turbot, grilled seafood and refined coastal cuisine.