Albariño is most known for making bright, high-acid white wines in rainy Rías Biaxas in Spain’s northwest corner. Albariño is much less common in Virginia, but the Afton Mountain team has clearly made an exemplary wine. Located just east of the Shenandoah National Park and Appalachian Mountains, Afton Mountain Vineyards sees almost twice as many rainy days during the summer months when compared to Rias Baixas. Despite the additional rain, their Albariño is refreshing and juicy with green apple Jolly Rancher candy and tropical star fruit notes. Virginia is still experimenting with different grape varietals but I think Afton Mountain is on to something with this one.
Afton Mountain Vineyards, Monticello (Virginia) Albariño 2023
By Vince Simmon