# Reserva Albariño (2023)

- **Producer:** Bodega Garzón
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Albariño
- **Region:** Maldonado, Uruguay
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €20
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** peach, blossom, lemon, grapefruit

## About this wine

Bodega Garzón is a family-owned estate founded by Alejandro Bulgheroni in the Maldonado region of Uruguay. Located near the Atlantic Ocean, the vineyards benefit from cool maritime breezes and ancient, highly weathered granite soils known as 'balasto'. The estate is globally recognized for its commitment to sustainability, featuring a state-of-the-art facility that was the first in the world to achieve 100% LEED certification across its entire operation.

## Interesting facts

- Bodega Garzón is the first winery in the world to earn 100% LEED certification for its entire facility.
- The estate's vineyards are divided into over 1,150 tiny individual plots of less than 0.2 hectares each.
- The vines grow on 'balasto', an ancient, highly mineral-rich weathered granite soil.

## Food pairing

This high-acid, mineral-driven Albariño pairs beautifully with fresh seafood and shellfish. The wine's crisp acidity cuts through the richness of grilled fish and complements citrus-forward dishes like ceviche, while its unctuous mid-palate can handle light spices and garlic-infused sauces.

## Wine making process

The 2023 vintage was marked by a historic drought, requiring precise canopy management and nocturnal drip irrigation to maintain vine health. The Albariño grapes were harvested early to preserve freshness. Fermentation was conducted in stainless steel and concrete vats. The wine was then aged on its fine lees in stainless steel tanks for three to six months to enhance its texture and complexity before bottling.