Marqués de Murrieta Albariño Pazo Barrantes 2021

Winery Background and History

Pazo de Barrantes is a historic Galician estate in Rías Baixas, held by the Creixell family—owners of Marqués de Murrieta—since the 16th century. In 1991, it was transformed into a modern winery next to the original manor, yet still driven by traditional values. María Vargas oversees both the Rioja and Galicia operations. The estate embodies a blend of regional heritage and precise modern winemaking. 

Producer and Wine Maker

Under technical director María Vargas—awarded “World’s Best Female Winemaker” in 2021—the Gran Vino Albariño reflects her attention to detail and consistency across properties. This estate wine emphasizes terroir via careful vineyard sourcing, gentle extraction, and a mix of stainless steel and acacia barrel aging. 

Vineyards and Micro Climates

The 12-hectare Pazo de Barrantes estate, located in the Salnés Valley of Rías Baixas, benefits from granite-based soils with sandy top layers and a cool Atlantic-influenced climate. The vines—trained in the traditional parrales system—produce aromatic, balanced fruit ideal for Albariño. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested, lightly pressed, and fermented at ~10 °C for ~30 days in stainless steel. Post-fermentation, the wine rests on the lees for 6 months. Then 15 % of it ages in acacia wood barrels before bottling after lengthy bottle-aging. 

Tasting Notes

Pale and elegant, the nose is perfumed with melon, lime, green apple, acacia blossom, fennel, and florals. The palate is vibrant and textured—creamy, saline, and layered, with bright citrus and subtle herbal depth. 

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs beautifully with seafood and refined coastal dishes like shellfish, grilled scampi, or asparagus. Its vibrant acidity, saline drive, and aromatic complexity support gastronomic fare. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

Best served well-chilled, around 10–12 °C, in a white wine glass to uplift its aromatics and freshness. No decanting needed. 

Storage and Aging Potential

Built to age gracefully, this Albariño can develop tertiary complexity—like saline and floral nuances—for 5–10 years or more. Its structure and bottle-aging reveal growing depth. 

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100 % Albariño

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approximately 13.5 %

Scores

• Decanter: 95 points

• The Wine Advocate (Robert Parker / Luis Gutiérrez): 94+ points

• James Suckling: 94 points

• Vinous: 92 points