2014 Vina Mein, Tega do Sal, D.O. Ribeiro Blanco, Galicia, Spain.
Javier Alen’s Vina Mein in Spain’s Galicia region of Ribeiro makes some compelling whites from native varietals, these are wonderfully textural wines that speak of place and history. Ribeiro has been at the forefront of European white wines since the 1600’s, but is in the middle of a great renaissance and re-birth with attention to tradition and micro terroirs in this amazing area in northwestern Spain. This single parcel white, the Tega do Sal is a field blend of 50% Treixadura, 40% Albarino and 10% Loureira, it was fermented in large cask with native yeasts and aged on the lees for 8 months, the grapes being from high elevation show the cool climate and come in at modest alcohol, here about 12%, but full of rich detail, lush body and impressive length. The Tega do Sal feels like a premier Chablis with a slight brioche and underlying creaminess to go with lovely acidity and steely mineral raciness, this shows marvelous even this young with white flowers, wet shale, lemon/lime and peach all making a vivid showing along with a hint of tropical fruit, green apple, hazelnut and chalky sea salt. The basic stainless steel Vina Mein Ribeiro is a bargain and should not be overlooked, but these single parcel whites with the extra time on the lees and the touch of wood are very special wines that deserve high praise and merit your attention, Galicia is one of the most exciting regions in the world right now, check it out!
($47 Est.) 93+ Points, grapelive
