Albariño
Lusco Albariño 2005
It looks like the weather gods are having one last go at making it uncomforably hot here in Melbourne. 37 Today and plenty of 37-40 degree days for the rest of the week. So don't expect many tasting notes of big Reds from Spain this week, although thats mainly what's in the tasting pile at the moment. It cooled down a bit this afternoon, so I popped the cork on this one. The price from the importer is a bit steep, there are plenty of other Albarinos around for about $20 less.
Holding a pale straw colour in the glass with aromas of white peach and lemon with a bit of shaley minerals. In the mouth its more lean and steely than generous, showing some tidy acid and a long finish. Tight fruit on the palate, lemons and peach with some apples that add complexity. There is some sage towards the finish with the swirling minerals. I like it, but its been priced quite above the growing market of Spanish whites. 90 Pts
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$44 is stretching the friendship a bit isnt it.
I often wonder even with mid-$20 Albariño why we don’t have examples of the style even at sub-$20 especially when one considers some of the great value tinto at that price point.
I mainatain, throw it under screw and retail for closer to $20 and it will go off!
Yeah $44 is pushing it for even the hardcore spanish nut like me.
One of the issues is the cost of production and land costs are a bit higher in Rias Baixas, a lot of the cheaper red comes from very dry, flat inland areas.
But having said that, I think the time is right for someone to import are lower cost albariño, they are out there but obviously they are generally lower quality level as well.
I look at the prices of these wines in the US and feel that without WET they would be a bargin here. But thats a pointless argument really….
Has anyone tried the latest screwcap Martin Codax Burgans Albarino they have at VC? $15/$13.50 is pretty keen pricing.
Not yet, I haven’t seen it around (but everyone is telling me about it!). I should have the top level Martin Codax in the next couple of weeks tho…
Let me know if you try one
Crikey, it’s a sign for albarino when VC starts stocking gear from Rias Baixas at a keen price. That said, I’ve never yet been blown away by a Martin Codax wine, but will go and get some.
I just picked up a bottle of the Martin Codax Burgans Albarino 2006. Packaging is good and it’s screwcap. Lemon peel, peach, musk, lime juice, kaffir, floral notes. Quite broad on the palate and the acidity is awkward/furry but still better - and fresher - than some albarinos at twice the dosh. More in the trad Vinho Verde style. I’m buying a stash.
Thanks for that Larry, I have a bottle in the fridge now…