Galicia,
the mysterious Finisterre (end of the earth) where the Roman legions
surrendered in terror, produces a large part of the best Spanish white
wines: the Albarinos from the wine-growing region called Rias Baixas.
Luminous wines with beautiful green and gold reflections, they are aromatically
very delicate, fresh and full of flavor. They are the perfect companion
for lobsters, crabs, oysters, clams, bass, turbot, and a long list of
other delicious foods which make Galicia a unique food experience.
The Atlantic climate is one of the pillars of the quality of the Albarino
wines, but another major support are the properties of the variety itself,
which is distantly related to the Central European Riesling introduced
into the region by Cluny monks journeying on pilgrimages to the tomb
of St. James along the Santiago Way.
The Albarinos of the Rias Baixas aren't the only quality wines to be
found in Galicia. The Godello variety produces some unusually fine,
delicate whites in the Valdeorras area, while some high category names
are beginning to emerge in the Ribeiro area.