2006 Condes de Albarei Albario
Rias Baixas, Spain
$16-$21 Retail
Rias Baixas, located in northwestern Spain above Portugal in the Galicia province, is home to Spain's most prestigious white wine. The highly regarded producer Condes de Albarei crafted this luscious wine from 100 percent Albariño grapes. In the glass, one swirl releases aromas of blossoms, white peach, apple and tropical fruit with minty, lemony notes. On the palate, the wine is rich and vibrant with concentrated flavors of honeydew, citrus, quince, spice and mineral undertones. It's a very pleasing wine with a refreshing, balanced acidity. Drink it young or quaff it as accompaniment to Serrano ham, tapas, fruit salsas and seafood, especially scallops and other shellfish.
Where to buy it: The Wine Seller and Whole Foods Markets in Uptown and Metairie.
Where to drink it: RioMar and Café Rani. (Listings current at press time.)