Lagar da Condesa was founded in 2013, but the Gil family in the town of Arcos da Condesa, located in the Val do Salnés area of Rías Baixas. The region has a long tradition of winemaking and is considered the birthplace of the Albariño varietal. The winery built in granite, as the typical Pazos from Galicia, is surrounded by its estate Albariño vineyards, which are all trained on “pergolas” about 5 feet off the ground to ensure plenty of ventilation to counter the damp climate. With an orientation to the south-west, it allowed an optimum ripening of the grapes and their ventilation. The Sandy and granitic soils allow a perfect water drainage coming from the frequent rains in this area. The vineyards of the Albariño variety, in these conditions, raise the perfect grapes for winemaking marketed by Lagar da Condesa. Harvesting is done by hand in 15kg (33lb) baskets. The harvesting and processing is manual combining the traditional method with the latest technology and respectful with the wine grape variety and the winemaking whole process is aimed at extracting the best qualities of the grape. The technical direction is managed by David Landin. Val do Salnés is the coolest and dampest area of the appellation, with the most Atlantic coastline. Known as “Green Spain”, the region has moderate year-round temperatures, ocean mists and up to 6x the average rainfall of the rest of the country. Balanced by plenty of sunshine and a southwest orientation, the Albariño ripens fully with good natural acidity and aromatic profile. Soils are dominated by granite; rivers and tributaries have left alluvial deposits of clay, silt, sand, and gravel, as well as high levels of minerality – all ideal conditions for Albariño. Albariños from the region show zesty citrus, peaches and white flowers with a touch of saline from the ocean mists. The majority of Albariño is made in stainless steel, however oak fermentation and ageing adds complexity, flavours and structure.
Grapes are hand-harvested into small 15 kg boxes to prevent damage and ensure optimal quality. Upon arrival at the winery, they undergo careful selection and destemming.
<span class="relative -mx-px my-[-0.2rem] rounded px-px py-[0.2rem] transition-colors duration-100 ease-in-out">The must undergoes a brief cold maceration with the grape skins at low temperatures, enhancing aromatic extraction. This is followed by gentle pressing to preserve the fruit's integrity.</span>
A portion of the must is fermented in 500- and 600-liter French oak barrels, while the remainder ferments in small stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures. The wine then remains on its lees for approximately four months, contributing to its complexity and texture.
Country
Spain
Grape
Albarino
Producer
Lagar da Condesa
Region
Galicia
Size
750ml
Types
White Wine
Vintage
2022
Sub-Region
Rias Baixas
