20.1 Spain - Galicia Flashcards
What is the main business type Rias Baixas?
Co-operatives
What is the climate of Rias Baixas?
1) Maritime
2) Warm summers and mild winters due to Atlantic moderation
3) High annual rainfall
What makes Albarino suitable to damp climates?
Thick skins that make it less prone to damage from rot
Rias Baixas’s high rainfall poses what threat?
Fungal disease prior to harvest
What are the soils of Rias Baixas?
Free-draining sand over granite
What is the principal grape variety of Rias Baixas?
Albarino (95%)
When does Albarino ripen?
Early to mid
What three other varieties is are permitted to be blended with Albarino in Rias Baixas?
Loureira
Treixadura
Caiño Blanco
Is red wine production permitted in Rias Baixas?
Yes, but accounts for only 1% of production
What are the three (of 5) main sub-regions of Rias Baixas?
1) Val do Salnes
2) O Rosal
3) Condado do Tea
What is the coolest, wettest sub-region of Rias Baixas and why?
1) Val do Salnes
2) It is located directly on the coast
Why is O Rosal typically warmer than Val do Salnes? (2)
1) Its vineyards are on south-facing riverbank sites on the north of the river
2) It is less surrounded by the Atlantic
Why does Condado do Tea produce wines that are riper in style with more peach fruit and slightly lower acidity?
It is further inland than Val do Salnes and O Rosal so warmer
Name a Rias Baixas producer known for their quality
Pazo de Senorans
What is the popular trellising system?
Pergola (Parral)
Why is pergola the traditional training method in RB?
To promote air circulation and mitigate fungal disease
Why are modern RB producers moving to VSP?
Easier to mechanise
Describe RB’s winemaking in four general terms
1) Protective to retain fresh fruit flavours
2) The white grapes may be macerated for a few hours to enhance the intensity and texture.
3) Cool fermentation in stainless steel
4) Partial malolactic conversion in cool years to reduce malic acidity
Are more premium expressions of RB stored on lees?
Yes, for 1-2 years and often longer though not stirred
Is most Rias Baixas sold domestically or exported?
Domestically
What are the main five Galician DOs?
1) Ribeiro DO
2) Ribeira Sacra DO
3) Valdeorras DO
4) Monterrei DO
5) Rias Baixas DO
What is Ribeiro DO’s climate?
Maritime (just south-east of RB)
What is the principal white grape variety of Ribeiro DO?
Treixadura
What is the climate of Ribeira Sacra DO?
Continental with maritime influence depending on exposure
