The Little Nell Wine Director, Jonathan Pullis, is a master sommelier and an avid explorer of wine from around the world. He shares his latest musings on what to drink now…
On beautiful summer days, I invariably reach for a bottle (or two) of white wine. I am always looking for cool, indigenous varietals, and Albariño is a great option.
Albariño is closer in style to Sauvignon Blanc than to Chardonnay, but it has its own unique “peachy” character. It also has slightly lower acidity than Sauvignon Blanc and is usually more full-bodied.
The grape helped to put the region of Rias Baixas (in southern Spain) on the wine lover’s map, but, like most things fashionable, the area has suffered from its success. Quality is variable, though the prices in the region have escalated quickly. 
We are thrilled at The Little Nell to find this fantastic example from the other side of Spain, the 2009 Raimat Albariño.
From the little-known region of Costers del Segre in Catalonia, this is an overachiever.
Delicious and refreshing, it pairs well with a variety of spring dishes, but is also fun on its own. This bottle is well-priced too, so it certainly won’t break the bank to uncork a bottle or two this week and enjoy!
For more information on Jonathan and The Little Nell’s extensive wine program, click here.
