Condado Laxas Albariño: The Essence of Galician Terroir

Producer Overview: Bodegas As Laxas

Located in the picturesque landscapes of Arbo, Pontevedra, in Galicia, Spain, Bodegas As Laxas stands as a paragon of winemaking tradition and innovation. Established in the late 19th century, this esteemed winery was among the pioneers to achieve Denomination of Origin status in Rías Baixas. With a production capacity handling 840,000 kg of grapes annually, the winery sources 60% of these from its pristine terraced vineyards, while collaborating with trusted local growers for the remainder. Their commitment to sustainable viticulture is evident in their dry-farming practices and the use of clam, oyster, and mussel shells to imbue the soil with enhanced minerality.

Wine Overview: A Tribute to Albariño

Condado Laxas Albariño, known for its youthful vibrancy and unoaked purity, is crafted from 100% Albariño grapes grown exclusively in the Condado do Tea subregion. With an alcohol content of 12.5% vol, this wine mirrors the distinctive attributes of its terroir—sandy granite-rich soils, lofty elevations, and the salubrious Atlantic climate. The wine is meticulously fermented in stainless steel tanks, preserving its aromatic freshness and varietal integrity.

Vineyard and Terroir

Perched along the verdant south-facing terraces above the Miño River, the vineyards of Bodegas As Laxas enjoy optimal sun exposure and cooling breezes. The sandy, granite-laden soils enriched with shell fragments are quintessential to the wine’s minerality, a feature that sings through with each sip. These vineyards, located 1,100–1,800 feet above sea level, thrive under a cool, maritime climate, enabling the grapes to maintain exceptional acidity and aromatic depth.

Winemaking Excellence

From hand-harvested fruit to careful fermentation at a precise 18°C, each stage of production is executed with precision. Post-fermentation, wines from different tanks are expertly blended to achieve a harmonious profile. Cold stabilization and sterile bottling ensure that each bottle retains its freshness and vitality.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: A luminous straw-yellow hue with glimmers of green.
• Nose: A bouquet high in aromatic complexity, featuring ripe apple, apricot, and floral notes in perfect accord.
• Palate: This wine envelops the palate with its silky texture and vibrant acidity. Juicy apple and apricot flavors are underscored by a subtle mineral backbone, leading to a persistent, sweet finish that invites the next sip.

Food Pairing and Enjoyment

Versatile and food-friendly, Condado Laxas Albariño is a match made in heaven for a vast array of dishes. Its acidity and minerality cut through rich seafood and shellfish, while its charming fruit profile pairs beautifully with white meats, vegetarian dishes, and delicate Asian cuisine. Best enjoyed well-chilled at 8–10°C, this wine is an ideal companion for any celebratory gathering.

Legacy and Innovation

In a bottle of Condado Laxas Albariño, find the heart of Galicia—a unique blend of tradition, terroir, and modern viticultural practices that culminate in a wine of superb quality. Created to be enjoyed young, its fresh character and elegant style promise to captivate both the casual wine enthusiast and the discerning connoisseur.