Terras Gauda 2021 Albarino, O Rosal, Rias Baixas

#74 Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2022
Terras (Land) Gauda (Happiness) was founded in 1990 by the Fonseca family in the southernmost region of Rías Baixas, O Rosal.  Considered to be one of Rías Baixas’ most emblematic wineries, Terras Gauda routinely produces award-winning white wines made solely from estate-grown fruit. Many attribute the estate as being responsible for the advancement and development of the appellation as a whole, due to its sincere dedication to quality control and preserving the native grape varieties of Galicia.

This 2021 is a blend of  60% Albariño, 23% Caíño Blanco and 7% Loureiro. The wine is fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel to retain the fresh fruit flavors and then aged on the lees in tank for added texture and richness.

Wine Enthusiast Magazine scored this 92 points saying "This Albariño-dominant wine has a nose of nectarine and Valencia orange. It is bright on impact, offering flavors of ripe summer peach and mango intertwined with a gorgeous floral note that is attributable to the Loureiro in the blend.” ”

James Suckling scored this 91 points saying "Quite an intense albarino with lemon rind, minerals, pears and a hint of apricot. This is creamy and sleek on the palate, with fresh, lemony flavors that spread evenly across the palate."

Wine Spectator scored this 90 points saying "Delicate notes of fresh herb and wet stone accent the apricot and Meyer lemon fruit flavors in this lithe, light-bodied white, which is zesty on the palate, with a spine of racy acidity. Lightly creamy on the salty finish. Albariño, Caiño and Loureiro."