This 2024 vintage of Extra Special Albariño from Rías Baixas, produced by Bodegas Pazo Cilleiro in Galicia, stands out not just for its gleaming trio of 2025 medals, bronze from IWC, silver from IWSC, and bronze from Decanter, but for offering a genuine taste of its Atlantic homeland. Made entirely from Albariño and bottled at source, so it adheres strictly to the Denominación de Origen Protegida regulations, setting it apart from other bulk-bottled bottles often found on supermarket shelves.
Immediately inviting with an aroma of peach and pear on first pour, it shifts quickly into sharper territory once tasted. Lemon and pear take the lead, with a crisp edge that folds into subtle stone fruit and finishes with a gentle yet persistent saltiness. That saline twist lingers beautifully, evoking the nearby sea and anchoring the wine firmly in its region.
At 13% ABV, though labelled dry, there’s a quiet roundness that reveals itself with patience. Allowing the wine to warm from fridge-cold to around 12°C brings out greater balance and texture, softening the sharper citrus without muting its vibrancy. It’s at this point, about 30 to 40 minutes after opening, that it shows its best.
At £10.47, it may feel a touch steep within Asda’s range, but considering the DOP credentials and hence at-source bottling, the price reflects the quality and authenticity. Also, during one of Asda’s 25% off promotions, bringing it down to £7.85, it becomes quite simply one of the smartest white buys on the shelf.
