Bodegas Balbás – La Retama Albillo Mayor 2021 – Ribera del Duero Spain

Bodegas Balbás La Retama Albillo Mayor 2021 is a structured white wine from La Horra in Ribera del Duero. Made from 100% Albillo Mayor, it combines concrete egg fermentation with French oak aging to deliver texture, minerality, and depth.

🍷 At a Glance

• Grape: 100% Albillo Mayor
• Region: La Horra (Burgos), Ribera del Duero, Castilla y León, Spain
• Vintage: 2021
• Altitude: 800 meters above sea level
• Soil: Sandy clays with abundant fluvial gravels
• Vinification: Cold maceration before low-pressure pressing, fermentation at 10–12°C in concrete eggs
• Aging: Minimum 7 months in 500L French oak barrels + 4 months bottle aging
• Alcohol: 13.52%
• Acidity: 5.3 g/L
• pH: 3.35
• Style: Dry white wine

👃 Tasting Notes & Experience

• Color: Bright greenish-yellow
• Aromatics: Apricot, tropical fruit such as pineapple, and floral notes
• Palate: Fresh and elegant entry with breadth on the palate
• Finish: Mineral-driven, savory persistence

La Retama expresses the distinctive character of Albillo Mayor in Ribera del Duero. Concrete egg fermentation preserves freshness and purity, while extended aging in 500L French oak barrels contributes structure and complexity.

❤️ Why We Love It

• Rare Albillo Mayor from Ribera del Duero
• Concrete egg fermentation for texture
• Structured white with mineral finish

🍽️ Food Pairing Ideas

• Grilled fish or seafood
• Rice dishes and paella
• Fresh salads and light Mediterranean dishes

👤 Who This Wine Is For

✓ Fans of structured, oak-influenced whites
✓ Drinkers curious about Ribera del Duero’s white expressions
✕ Not ideal if you prefer very light, crisp whites