Freddy R. Troya

9.0

Fotsch – Albariño – 2022
Napa Valley, California, USA 🇺🇸

Overview
From a boutique family-run winery nestled between St. Helena and Calistoga, this limited-production Albariño is a rare California expression of a grape better known for its Atlantic roots. Crafted in small quantities, it captures the bright energy of Napa sunshine with a coastal soul.

Aromas & Flavors
Vibrant aromas of pineapple, lychee, and lemon zest, complemented by hints of white peach and tropical flowers. On the palate, juicy citrus meets ripe orchard fruit, framed by refreshing minerality.

Mouthfeel
Light to medium-bodied with crisp acidity and a clean, zesty texture. The finish is long and lively, echoing with tropical brightness and saline freshness.

Food Pairings
Perfect for sunny afternoons with ceviche, shrimp tacos, grilled halibut, or citrusy salads. A delightful companion to sushi or goat cheese crostini.

Verdict
A refreshing and joyful Albariño, rare for Napa Valley, yet beautifully executed. Its balance of tropical fruit and coastal-like crispness makes it a standout among California whites. Cheers!

Did You Know?
Albariño, native to Galicia, Spain, thrives in cooler climates, which makes its appearance in Napa Valley particularly unique. The grape’s natural acidity translates beautifully when grown in Napa’s northern pockets where fog and elevation temper the heat.

🍷 Personal Pick Highlight
This one truly screams sunny afternoon, lively, juicy, and full of personality. Proof that Albariño can shine brilliantly even far from the Iberian coast. — 4 hours ago

Bob McDonald

9.1

Mid crimson in colour. Notes of plum , raspberry and stalky notes. Ripe and fulsome on the palate Sweet Plums and Rhubarb flavours with earthy notes. Medium palate weight with medium plus intensity. From Australia’s most southerly vineyard in the Huon Valley of Tasmania. Has become somewhat of a cult boutique wine with a prolific record of medals and Trophies on the Australian Show Circuit. — 5 years ago

Nick Brandon

9.7

One of my first pais.
Translucent garnet.

Medium full body with rich cherry flavor. Chewy and dry. However, the fruit notes provide an air of sweetness. — 7 months ago

Bob McDonald

9.1

Another candidate in the 41 wine lineup at the Downs Club tasted blind. Unlike many of the other candidates which had ripe black fruits from 2018, this had notes of dried meat and charcuterie. Full bodied - more savoury than fruit driven. Spinifex is a boutique Barossa producer. Winemaker is the Kiwi star, Peter Schell. Very Good. — 3 years ago

Laura

9.8

Lichi wine — 6 years ago

Fredrik Finn

9.0

A bit modest at first, but with a pronounced minerality that is confidently taking over the show, and evolving into a salty complexity. Great presence and a vibrant texture on the palate is driving the fruit through the finish. A very smart wine. — 6 years ago

Ryan Colthorp

9.0

Quite the find! — 7 months ago

Heather Danskin

9.0

Very tasty! Grenache (45%), Syrah ;35%), Mourvèdre (15%), Roussanne (5%). Really nice balance of complexity and drinkablility. Not super fruit forward. From Chile. — 2 years ago

Andy Baker

9.1

Fantastic Pinot from a boutique vineyard on Chehalem Mountain. Fantastic nose, rich flavors and a nice long finish. 14.2% Alc. love it — 3 years ago

with Adiba

Bill Mowry

9.0

Eagle Ridge is one of my favorite boutique wineries in Livermore. They use all estate grapes and the Petite Sirah is their signature wine. This 6 year old PS has flavors of plum and brambleberries. — 6 years ago