The 2017 La Marea Albariño asks questions. Well, more like one question, really – where do you want to go? There’s a windswept beach, represented by hints of wet granite in the bouquet and a fine salinity on the palate. Or if you prefer orchards in bloom, the wine offers orange blossom, honeysuckle and a notion of beeswax on the nose, followed by breezy meadow grasses and stonefruits when sipped.
Yet this single Monterey County vineyard Albariño from I. Brand would rather you consider a tour through vales rich in fruits and fall melons. It tempts you with an aromatic rush of honeydew, ripe pear and plump nectarine flowing over the floral pleasantries and subtle minerality. It then embraces your palate in juicy melon and stonefruit, leaving traces of grapefruit rind on the finish as it pulls away.
The grape is prized in Spain. Yet the 2017 California vintage clearly wishes you to traipse the rocky coasts, fields and sun-baked mountains on this side of the pond, as well.
I. BRAND & FAMILY TASTING ROOM 19 E. Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley. 298-7227, lppwines.com
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