La Multa Albilla Sobre Lias 2022 (Spain)

Description

Apple, Mineral, Oak

“Mineral and white soil-smoke of clay and hard stone, scents of a light barrel-ferment and time on lees then flavours of apple and citrus peel, some dried herb and crushed white florals. A dry wine touches the palate with flavours of tree and citrus fruits along with an equal level of winemaker impacts from the use of lees and old barrel to a backbone of of poise and acidity. Well-made with best drinking from day of purchase through 2030. For a 2022 vintage wine this example is very good with a persistent and lengthy finish. A food wine or as an aperitif - very worthwhile” Cameron Douglas, Master Sommelier

From the rising star of Spanish wine, Norrel Robertson, Master of Wine. After years of producing world-renowned ancient vine reds Norrel has now also turned his attention to the extremely rare, indigenous white grape variety Albilla de Villamalea. This variety is unique to a tiny area around the village of Villamalea in the Manchuela DO of central Spain, 145 km inland from Valencia, and is distinct from the more common Spanish Albillo varieties found throughout Castilla y León. In a country with nearly one million hectares of vineyards, just 40 ha of Albilla survive at 750 m above sea level in arid hills. 

The delicate old vine, low-yield white grapes are hand-harvested gently pressed, fermented long and cool and aged on lees ‘Sobre Lias’ for several months to enhance the creamy texture and complexity.  Reminiscent of France’s famous Chablis, the resultant wine is flinty, citric, pithy and saline with a long finish. 

Food Pairing: Oysters, shellfish, white fish, salads, pork terrine, roast chicken, soft cheeses. A great seafood white and an exciting discovery — rare, pure and utterly unique.