(2016) What a triumph this is for Marimar Torres, who experimented with different appellations to grow Albariño before settling on the Russian River. Grown organically and planted at high density, the wine is made in steel and does not go through malolactic fermentation. It has an expressive, authentic and beguiling nose where the most delicate fresh pear and peach marries with gentle floral hints, and a touch of Chablis-like flint. On the palate the 14% alcohol is unbotrusive, but instead gives fat and texture to the ripe pear fruit of the palate before a streak of ripe, lime-like acidity. A terrific Albariño by any standards. Only the 2012/13 are in stock in the UK at time of review.
(2015) Blended from across the Cape, 37% is Chenin Blanc aged between 20 and 34 years, from the Bottelary hills and Swartland's granite soils. There's also 28% Roussanne, 22% Semillon from old vines in Franschhoek and Chardonnay. There's a lovely natural feel to this, with creaminess and gentle earth and oatmeal. Such a flood of dry apple fruit, tangy and pure, with delicious kick of acidity. Long and beautifully focused.
