Albarino Review: 2010 Serra da Estrela and 2009 Mar de Frades
Here’s a quick look at a couple of new, relatively inexpensive Albarinos from the Rias Baixas region of Spain.
2010 Serra da Estrela Albarino Rias Baixas – Crisp and tropical, but with a distinct undertone of vegetation. The light body, moderate acid, and lemongrass notes on the finish make it worthwhile. B / $18
2009 Mar de Frades Albarino Rias Baixes – Less enthralling. Again, tropical (think mangoes), but sweeter and more forward. The finish is again sugary, and it clashes a bit with food. C+ / $22