Why you should celebrate International Albariño Day
August 1st is International Albariño Day, and you may not think of English Wine when you think of this Iberian grape. But things are changing… And there are some good reasons way.
Nestled in the picturesque Kent countryside, Balfour Winery is home to one of the UK’s few vineyards cultivating the captivating Albariño grape. Celebrated on Albariño Day, this grape variety offers a unique glimpse into the future of English wine, and Balfour is leading the charge with its innovative approach and commitment to excellence.
Why Albariño Thrives in the English Climate
Albariño, a grape traditionally associated with Spain’s Rías Baixas region, has found an unexpected yet thriving home in the UK, thanks to the visionary efforts of winemakers like Fergus Elias and his father, Owen Elias. Owen first planted Albariño vines at Balfour over 15 years ago, recognising the potential for this variety to flourish in England’s unique climate.
The maritime climate of the UK, particularly in the southern regions like Kent, mirrors the conditions found in Albariño’s native Galicia. With cool temperatures and ample rainfall, the vines are able to develop the grape’s signature freshness and aromatic complexity. Fergus Elias notes, “We even get some of that maritime climate from our vineyards closer to the coast, whilst retaining the characteristic freshness.” This environment allows Albariño to thrive, producing wines that are not only distinctive but also quintessentially English.
The Latest Harvest: A Testament to Patience and Potential
At Balfour Winery, Albariño is the latest grape to be harvested, underscoring the patience and precision required to craft exceptional wine. This late harvest allows the grapes to reach optimal ripeness, developing rich flavours and a balance of acidity that make Albariño wines so appealing.
Fergus Elias, Balfour’s Head Winemaker, shares his excitement about the grape’s future: “Each vintage it becomes more exciting. We’re rapidly expanding our plantings of the grape alongside the growing interest.” The enthusiasm surrounding Albariño at Balfour is palpable, and the winery is poised to become a leading producer of this intriguing variety in the UK.
A New Style of Wine Emerges
Albariño’s introduction to the UK wine scene is more than just a novelty; it represents the birth of a new style of English wine. As Fergus Elias explains, “We’re only just beginning to see the potential for the grape – and we can expect to see more English Albariño over the coming years.” There’s not many chances to be at the birth of a new style, and it’s something we’re hugely excited about.
The winery’s first release of Albariño has been met with rave reviews, marking it as a wine to watch in the coming months. Its versatility makes it a perfect pairing for the fresh, seasonal flavours celebrated in top UK restaurants, as noted by Sketch’s top sommelier, Frederic Brugues, who says, “Albariño is a fascinating grape and works beautifully for pairing. It provides a real talking point too.”
A Celebration of Innovation and Excellence
Albariño Day at Balfour Winery is not just a celebration of a single grape but a testament to the innovative spirit driving English winemaking forward. As the only estate in the UK cultivating this variety, Balfour is at the forefront of an exciting movement that is reshaping the landscape of British viticulture.
With its commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation, Balfour Winery is poised to lead the way in defining a new era of English wine. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious newcomer, exploring Albariño at Balfour is an invitation to discover the vibrant future of English wine.
In conclusion, the Albariño grape’s journey from Spain to the heart of Kent is a remarkable story of adaptation and vision. As Fergus Elias aptly puts it, “The reception we’ve had to our first release has been superb – and we’re expecting considerable growth and interest.” Albariño Day at Balfour Winery is not just an event but a celebration of the potential that lies within the vines, waiting to be discovered.
To discover it for yourself, click here to buy a bottle – or visit Balfour At Bow or Sketch London to enjoy a glass.
