2007 Albarello

The 2007 Albarello (100% Albarello aka Brancellao) is produced from a grape that is nearly extinct, wiped out beginning in the 1850s from Oidium and subsequently by phylloxera. These vines are 9 years old and only 33 cases were produced. It presents a unique aromatic array (it was always regarded as an intensely aromatic variety) with a roasted, plum compote character. Sweetly-fruited and seamless on the palate, this is a concentrated, elegant offering with no hard edges. It is drinking splendidly now but should easily last for 6-8 years. Master Sommeliers, take notice! Quinta de Muradella, located in the town of Verin in the Monterrei DO, is a garage winery where proprietor Jose Luis Mateo and Raul Perez make wine from 34 unique, certified organic, parcels. A principal purpose of the project is to relate the history of the region through the wines. That fascinating story goes beyond the scope of this report, but Ole Imports has it available to those interested. Importer: Ole Imports, New Rochelle, NY; www.oleimports.com