Here begins the first chapter. Ben has been a long-term believer of its potential and ageability from top sites, Albariño seemed like the obvious choice to test the waters with. Jamie, Daniel and Ben had been longstanding enthusiasts of Zarate in Rias Baixas, and proposed the project to Eulogio, who was just as excited about this as they were. The following spring, they travelled to Rías Baixas to meet with Eulogio, visit potential vineyards and discuss the concept for the wine. They chose two vineyards: a 35-year-old site on sandy granitic soils in Carballoso, 6 kms from the sea. The grapes from here were fermented and aged in a 1200 litre chestnut barrel. The second was a 30-year-old vineyard at sea level next to the Atlantic in Castrelo near Cambados, here soils are granitic with red clay. The grapes were fermented and aged in a large concrete tank. Here ‘Sal da Terra’ was born: a precise Albariño, with a signature salty tang derived from the vineyards’ maritime environment.
Galicia
Rías Baixas
Albariño:
Cool maritime climate
Sandy grantic soils
Uncertified organic
50 metres
Fermented in a mix large chestnut and contcrete vessels
Aged for 12 months