The Albillo grape is a distinctive white wine grape that is predominantly grown in the Central and North-western regions of Spain. This grape is often referred to as Albillo Mayor or Albillo Real.
Characteristically, the Albillo grape produces small and compact clusters of yellowish, almost golden berries. This grape matures early in the growing season and typically provides a good yield. It is generally resistant to common vine diseases, making it a favourite among vine growers.
The wines produced from Albillo are often subtly sweet and generally light in acidity. They tend to exhibit fresh and delicate aromas of fruits, such as apricots and peaches, combined with additional floral notes. Despite being light-bodied, they offer a noticeable degree of richness on the palate, with some variations even delivering a slight hint of bitterness on the finish.
Albillo wines are often enjoyed young, allowing the taster to appreciate the pure, vibrant character of the grape. However, they can also be aged, especially those from the Ribera del Duero region. The wines are brilliantly structured – the balance of sweetness, acidity, and richness allowing them to evolve beautifully over time.
In recent years, Albillo grapes have grown in popularity, both in domestic and international markets. This surge in appreciation can be attributed to the rise of Spanish white wines and the increasing interest in indigenous grape varieties not only from wine consumers but also prominent sommeliers worldwide.
The Albillo grape is also commonly used in the production of blended wines to add complexity and enhance an aromatic profile. As the world of wine continues to explore and rediscover lesser-known grape varieties, the Albillo grape is certainly one to watch. Its inherent charms and potential for creating exceptional wines will undoubtedly secure this grape variety a solid place in the viticultural pantheon.
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