Benito Santos holds a significant position in the contemporary history of Albariño and the Rias Baixas DO. During the 1930s, he embarked on his winemaking journey by tending to his grandfather’s vineyards and crafting wine for his bar. Throughout the 1960s, he achieved repeated success, earning accolades in the Annual Fiesta de Albariño in Cambados. Notably, his instrumental role in the establishment of the DO in the 1980s solidified his impact on the region.
Benito Santos approached his craft with sincerity and reverence for nature, practising organic farming methods that allowed the wines to express the true essence of their terroir. He firmly believed that “wine should be made in the vineyard, not in the winery.” Today, Jose Antonio Porto, the current winemaker, upholds this philosophy, carrying forward the legacy of Benito Santos.
Situated along the seaside in the Val do Salnes sub-region, one of the five within the Rias Baixas DO, the vineyards span 12 hectares. They benefit from the mild Atlantic climate, enabling the production of wines that exude freshness, structure, and minerality.
The three Albariño vineyards in Val do Salnes take their names from neighbouring ancient churches and hold organic certification—a rarity in this region characterized by abundant rainfall and susceptibility to mildew. Following the traditional trellis system, the vines are meticulously handpicked and collected in small trays. Winemaking practices involve solely natural yeasts and minimal sulfur usage.
The Albariño vines thrive in granitic sandy clay soils and have reached the age of 30. They are carefully harvested by hand and undergo a six-month maturation on their lees before being bottled.
2021 Albarino Benito Santos
Experience the essence of Rias Baixas with the 2021 Albariño from Benito Santos. This wine embodies the spirit of its renowned winemaker, delivering a captivating expression of the region’s terroir.
In the glass, it gleams with a pale golden hue, inviting you to delve into its aromatic bouquet. Aromas of fresh white peaches, zesty citrus, and delicate floral notes dance gracefully, captivating the senses with their vibrant allure.
On the palate, this Albariño showcases its remarkable balance. Crisp acidity intertwines harmoniously with flavours of ripe pear, tangy green apple, and hints of tropical fruit. The wine’s mineral-driven character adds depth and complexity, providing a fascinating interplay between fruitiness and a distinct saline quality.
92 Corked Points
