Located in the heart of the Rias Baixas region in Galicia, Spain, Zarate is a producer that has been making waves in the wine world with their exceptional Albariño. Established in the 16th century, the Zarate estate has a rich history of winemaking that has been passed down through generations.
Zarate’s estate wine is a true reflection of the region's unique terroir. The granitic soils of Salnes Valley, where the vines are planted, provide the perfect foundation for the Albariño grapes to thrive. This, combined with the coastal climate, results in a wine with pinging acidity and a mineral-driven character.
What sets Zarate apart is their commitment to traditional winemaking techniques. The fruit is carefully hand-picked and sorted in the vineyard, ensuring only the finest grapes make it into the wine. Once brought to the bodega, the grapes are berry plucked and gently pressed to produce a low-yield must. This careful process allows for the true expression of the Albariño grape to shine through.
The must then undergoes natural fermentation, a process that takes place in stainless steel tanks to preserve the purity of the fruit. After fermentation, the wine spends 3 months on its lees, adding depth and complexity to the final product. Finally, the wine is filtered and bottled, ready to be enjoyed.
The end result is a classical-style wine that is fresh, elegant, and perfectly balanced. The combination of Salnes Valley Granite and Albariño’s coastal zip creates a wine with a unique character that is truly representative of the region.
Zarate’s estate wine is a testament to their dedication to quality and their respect for the land. With each sip, you can taste the centuries of winemaking expertise and the love and care that goes into every bottle. It’s no wonder that Zarate has become a name synonymous with exceptional Albariño.