When some are releasing their 2021 wine, Pazo Barrantes took a break and are now releasing their 2019 Gran Vino Albariño, after a hiatus of almost two years. Because they changed almost everything... They have 12 hectares of 35-year-old vineyards divided into eight different plots around the winery in the Val do Salnés plus one hectare they rent from the archbishopric. The soils are degraded and sandy granite and the pruning the traditional "parrón," "emparrado" or pergola at 1.8 to two meters high. The grapes were picked between September 13th and 20th, let to settle and fermented in stainless steel at 10 degrees Celsius for 60 days. The wine was kept with the lees for two months and a further seven months in tank, but 15% of the wine matured in 225-liter acacia barrels. The wine was bottled in June 2020 and was kept in bottle for 16 months. It’s 13% alcohol and has a pH of 3.4 and 7.8 grams of acidity (measured in tartaric acid per liter). The wine is extremely balsamic and medicinal, with an explosive nose with notes of white flowers, but the nose changes, as we know. What impressed me was the seamless structure and the harmony on the palate. It’s titillating, elegant, detailed and nuanced, with terrific balance. I was gobsmacked! 95,097 bottles and 1,425 magnums produced. All bottles are numbered and in the same elegant bottle as La Comtesse. Obviously, the price has changed.
Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 94 RP
A fruity nose of apple blossom, nectarine, candied pear, guava, lime cordial and some fresh cider. It’s medium-bodied with bright acidity and a juicy, ripe palate. Subtle saline notes. Round, delicious finish. Drink now.
James Suckling | 92 JS
This wine has aromas of white peach with a hint of petrol. It is smooth in the mouth, offering flavors of nectarine, Valencia orange, salted popcorn and dried herbs.
Wine Enthusiast | 92 WE
This white has a smooth, luxurious texture, with lime, honey cream, white blossom and tangerine flavors that are matched with a hint of toast and ample spice elements. Mouthwatering acidity is well-integrated, with a long, lingering finish. Drink now through 2024. 11,667 cases made, 1,620 cases imported.
Wine Spectator | 91 WS
Brilliant, green-hued straw. Aromas of nectarine, orange, Anjou pear and white flowers, with a hint of fennel in the background. Fleshy orchard and pit fruit flavors tighten up with air. Shows very good energy on the long, chewy, mineral-driven finish, which leaves pear skin and honeysuckle notes behind.
Vinous Media | 91 VM
