The Story of Granbazan Etiqueta Ámbar Albariño 2023

Let’s uncork the story of Granbazan Etiqueta Ámbar Albariño 2023, one of the standout white wines from Rías Baixas.

Vineyard & Winemaking

• Estate-grown Albariño from Finca Tremoedo in Val do Salnés, with vines roughly 35–40 years old creeping along sandy-granite slopes just a kilometer from the Atlantic.
• Grapes are hand‑picked into 17 kg crates, cold macerated for 6–12 hrs, fermented on native yeasts, and aged on fine lees in stainless tanks (some sources mention minor oak use) for about 8 months.

Tasting Profile

Appearance & Aroma

Bright, clear yellow with pale green hillites. The nose bursts with tropical and stone fruit—think white peach, papaya, blood orange—plus jasmine, orange blossom, pastry notes, and a whisper of saline minerality.

Palate

A vibrant entry reveals powerful acidity, a saline, slightly spritzy texture, and a creamy yet lean frame. Flavors echo orchard and citrus fruits, honeydew melon, tangerine, and a finishing bitter‑quinine snap.

 Critical Acclaim

• Tim Atkin MW – 93 pts: "Stony and intense, layers of lime cordial, green apple, lemon zest and impressive extract" (drink 2024–29).
• James Suckling – 92 pts: "Fresh and pure… lemons, grapefruit and peaches… medium‑bodied and saline with a refreshing finish" (vegan).
• Vinous – 90 pts: Notes of white peach, orange blossom, candied citrus; dry, light, delicate freshness with pleasing spritz.
• Wine Enthusiast: An “intriguing contrast between herbaceous, saline aromatics and a restrained palate,” offering youthful promise.

Food Pairing & Ideal Moments

This Albariño is a seafood-lover’s dream—perfect with grilled oysters, shrimp, sardines, or ceviche. It also shines with spicy rice dishes, creamy pasta, and mild cheeses. Its bright acidity and saline backbone make it a refreshing companion under the sun.

Why It Shines

1. Sense of Place: The vineyard’s proximity to the sea and ancient soils imbue a captivating minerality.
2. Balanced Complexity: Lush aromatics meet precise structure—there’s depth and elegance.
3. Ageing Potential: Fresh now but built to evolve over 3–5 years thanks to its structure and lees aging.

Verdict

Granbazan Etiqueta Ámbar 2023 is a sublime expression of Albariño—bright yet textured, lively yet layered. If you're seeking a benchmark for Rías Baixas whites, this wine delivers, combining coastal finesse with orchard fruit depth. Whether you’re sipping solo or pairing with shellfish, it’s both a delight and a discovery.

Serve: Chilled (~50°F / 10 °C);
Cellar: Drink 2024–2029;
Alcohol: ≈12–13.5% ABV.

If you’ve tried this vintage or have questions about other Albariños, I’d love to hear your tasting notes!

Links

https://ndjohn.co.uk/products/granbazan-etiqueta-ambar?utm_source