Albarino has been called "Spain's quintessential white wine." While this claim may be disputed by others, such as those who love Verdejo or Txakoli, one can't seriously argue that an Albarino is a very good white wine. And, as I learned recently, this varietal also makes a very good sparkling wine.
One such varietal is Albarino. I have reviewed Black Ankle's Albarino in the past. My thoughts of that particular wine, which was the 2011 vintage, provide a little foresight into how the wine would work as a sparkling wine:
The aromatic elements suggest grapefruit and perhaps some apple or a little lemon. The taste also features these elements, with grapefruit and citrus notes being at the forefront. There was definitely a little minerality and even a little hay or straw that followed in the background. There is also a little tartness that grips the edges of the tongue long after the wine has been consumed....
I said a little foresight, because, as with what happens over time, things change.
The Chispa retains the citrus in both the aroma and the taste; however, there is one element that is far more pronounced than any grapefruit or lemon. It is apple, and, judging by the tartness, something more along the line of green apples.
To be sure, my nose and palate are far from trained, or even refined. Those with more well-trained noses and tongues typically speak of citrus, like that grapefruit, or stone fruits, such as peaches and nectarines. Indeed, they speak of a wide range of fruits and nuts, from oranges to almonds. Apples are not usually included in the descriptions.
Perhaps the turn to a sparkling wine influenced the aroma and taste of the Albarino grape. Maybe it is just my lack of experience tasting sparkling Albarino wines. Only time -- and possibly another bottle or two of this sparkling varietal -- will tell. Until then ...
ENJOY!
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