Abel Mendoza Garnacha Blanca 2023

The 2023 Garnacha Blanca comes from a grape that they have been using not only for the whites but also for some red blends and the rosé, as they feel it gives the wines added complexity from younger and older vines from different vineyards. The aim of the white varietal collection is to showcase the character of each grape through a similar vinification and élevage, fermenting them in barrels (but the labels don't mention it anymore) and aging the wines in those barrels with the fine lees that are stirred periodically for five months. It has contained ripeness and a moderate 13.5% alcohol for a variety that can achieve higher alcohol, while keeping a low pH of 3.28 and 5.18 grams of acidity, making it one of the freshest and sharpest of the whites. Despite its youth, this is the one that shows the varietal profile more clearly, with shy notes of waxy apples and a vibrant palate. It's balanced, fresh, velvety, clean and focused. 1,661 bottles produced. It was bottled in March 2024. (Luis Guitérrez)