Paco and Lola Ophalum Albarino 2024

Founded in 2005 in the Salnés Valley of Galicia’s Rías Baixas D.O., Paco & Lola began as a cooperative of more than 400 small-growers committed to crafting Albariño with a modern, vibrant identity. Vineyard holdings are extensive—over 200 ha across 1,800+ plots—on sandy-loam, granitic and slightly acidic soils.From the outset, sustainability has been a core focus; the winery is a member of the LIFE+ “Viñas Atlánticas” programme and has long employed integrated vineyard management and minimal inputs. Their ethos? Albariño that is expressive and accessible, yet rooted in the distinctive Atlantic coastal terroir of Galicia: salty breezes, granite soils, and a freshness that reflects the region’s maritime climate.

Pale straw with green-tinged edges, the 2024 Ophalum shows citrus peel (lemon, lime), green apple, and a wave of fresh herbs on the nose. Tropical touches (pineapple, lychee) emerge softly, backed by a hint of saline minerality from the granitic soils. On the palate, it’s crisp and lively with bright acidity and a clean, textured core of orchard fruit and subtle stone fruit nuance. Fine lees ageing adds a gentle mouth-feel weight without rounding away the firm structure. A sleek finish lingers with refreshing citrus and a clean mineral thread. Fermented at 16 °C for 21 days in stainless steel and kept on fine lees until bottling, this is 100% Albariño from selected vineyard