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Rodrigo Méndez of Forjas del Salnés, known locally as Rodri, represents the fifth generation of a family with centuries of winemaking heritage. Widely regarded as one of the world’s greatest Albariño producers, he crafts over 15 small-batch bottlings from the micro-terroirs of Val do Salnés, the most coastal subzone of DO Rías Baixas—an appellation founded by his grandfather. Rodri also honors his family’s legacy by leading the revival of nearly extinct local red varietals. His wines are pure reflections of Salnés’ diverse terroirs, achieved through historic techniques and a commitment to organic, low-intervention methods, including native yeast fermentation, extended lees contact without bâtonnage, and minimal sulfur use. As a grower, he deeply respects the region’s ancient vineyards, trained in the traditional Parral (pergola) system, and takes a hands-on approach with extended hang times, manual harvests, and organic farming practices. WHAT MAKES THIS WINE UNIQUE? The unique winemaking techniques and talents of lifelong viticulturalist, Rodri Mendez, make for a very interesting project. This Albariño undergoes a process ranging from free run, natural must, to skin fermentation, to foudre fermentation to resting in a stainless steel tank. GRAPE: 100% Albariño. Vines planted in 1862. Tended in pure granite with top layers of rocks and alluvial soil at 5 m (16 ft) elevation. PAIRING SUGGESTIONS: This wine pairs beautifully with seafood dishes like grilled shrimp, oysters, or a delicate ceviche, enhancing their natural freshness. It also complements lighter fare such as herbed goat cheese, lemon-roasted chicken, and Mediterranean-style salads with a citrus dressing. For a richer pairing, consider creamy risotto or pasta with fresh herbs and spring vegetables, offering a balanced contrast to these textures and flavors. VINIFICATION AND AGING: Aged for 12 months in 4-year-old large foudre of 2,500L. Unfined and lightly filtered. TASTING NOTES: Brilliant straw-yellow. Fresh quince, tangerine and lemongrass on the intensely perfumed nose, which is complicated by floral and quinine nuances that build with air. Shows impressive nerve and mineral lift on the palate, offering vibrant citrus and orchard fruit flavors and a suave floral nuance. Finishes taut, racy and very long, displaying superb focus and an echo of florality. -- Josh Raynolds.