Pazo de Barrantes, a wine that captures the subtle flavor and freshness of albariño, comes from one the largest single estates in Salnés Valley, Rías Baixas D.O. of Galicia, Spain. The wine’s true albariño character is a direct reflection of the Creixell family’s core values of quality and estate-owned vineyards, paired with a modern winemaking approach and the latest technology.

The grapes used to elaborate the wine are sourced from Pago Cacheiro, a 3.7-acre single-vineyard on the Pazo de Barrantes estate. The shallow soils of the estate are granitic with sand on the surface and the average age of the vineyard is 30 years. The vines are trained high on supporting wires in the ‘parral’ trellis system (also known as Parron), as is the local tradition, to guard against mildew and rot, and to assist ripening.

Hand-picked in 20kg crates, the albariño bunches are then destemmed before pressing to avoid any herb flavors. The grapes are pressed slowly and gently to respect and extract the intense aromatic potential that these old vine grapes provide. The must is decanted by flotation to ensure greater aromatic purity and then fermented at 50ºF in 3,000-liter French oak vats for approximately 60 days.

Once the juice is settled, fermentation takes place in a temperature-controlled (50ºF) 3,000-liter French Allier oak vat for 60 days. In an effort to gain more volume on the palate and a balanced mouth-feel, the wine is left in contact with its fine lees for six months. La Comtesse remains in this same wooden vat for 12 months, followed by 13 months in concrete tanks.

The amazing aromatic range of La Comtesse 2017 shows notes of ripe nectarine, quince fruit, hints of thyme, dill and fennel on top of its characteristic eucalyptus base. Full-bodied, savoury, structured, rich, creamy and a fresh yet persistent finish.

La Comtesse allows for bolder pairings with different textures and flavors. Seared crayfish with fresh pasta and vegetables; grilled lobster with mayonnaise; steamed prawns with mustard and truffle oil; warm shrimp salad with honey mustard and green apples. The recommended serving temperature is 55ºF to 57ºF, allowing the flavors and complexity to show at their best.