Goliardo A Telleira Forjas del Salnés is a benchmark expression of Albariño from the master of the variety and the Rías Baixas region, Rodrigo Méndez. If you have already discovered and enjoyed Albariño, this is the next level. Concentrated fruit, intensity, complexity and impressive structure are beautifully wrapped in striking minerality and the razor-sharp acidity that defines Albariño. Consider that the previous vintage was awarded 97 points by Suckling, while the current release is yet to be rated. If you have never tried Albariño before, prepare to discover an entirely new world.

Rodrigo Méndez has deep family roots in both Galicia and viticulture, giving him an exceptional understanding of the region, as well as access to ancient vineyards, some of which are up to 180 years old. In 2005, he founded Forjas del Salnés, a name chosen as a tribute to his grandfather’s blacksmith workshops (“forjas”), where the craft of ironworking was combined with a passion for winemaking. His philosophy revolves around the authentic expression of terroir with minimal human intervention, as Méndez’s vision is to produce wines that convey the soil, climate and history of their origin with absolute precision.

Goliardo A Telleira Forjas del Salnés is a single-vineyard, single-varietal Albariño sourced from vines over 50 years old, planted right beside the sea. This unique location, which is warmer in comparison with the rest sites that Rodrigo works with, produces an Albariño that balances ripe fruit with a distinctly mineral and saline character. The wine is fermented in old 750-litre oak barrels and aged in 500-litre barrels and 1,500-litre foudres for 12 months. The aim is to preserve the varietal character, while the oak contributes additional layers of complexity, texture and structure.

Goliardo A Telleira Forjas del Salnés is compelling proof that Albariño is not only capable of producing fresh, vibrant wines, but can also deliver world-class examples with outstanding ageing potential. You should try it asap!