Santiago Ruiz 'O Rosal' Rías Baixas Blanco 2023
The Santiago Ruiz 'O Rosal' Blanco is a white blend of Albariño, Loureiro, Godello, Treixadura and Caíño grapes. O Rosal is the most southerly sub-region of the Rías Baixas, situated on the north bank of the river Miño, which marks the border with Portugal's Vinho Verde. Here the vineyards benefit from cooling Atlantic breezes and the moderating influence and increased airflow from the river. Loureiro, a variety prized for its aromatic flavour profile, performs particularly well here and wines labelled ‘O Rosal’ must include this grape in the blend, something which distinguishes them from the majority of Rías Baixas wines which are 100% Albariño. Each grape variety is vinified separately and, after a short period of lees ageing, the blend was carefully assembled to produce the distinctive Santiago Ruiz style. Bright yellow in colour. On the nose, intense aromas of crisp apple, pear, lime blossom and lemon verbena are married with subtle herbal notes. On the palate, the precise and concentrated flavours are complemented by a stony minerality and balanced by a vibrant acidity, resulting in a crisp and clean finish. The distinctive label is a hand-drawn map of the region, drawn by Santiago’s daughter to guide guests travelling to her wedding which took place at the winery.
