Tasting Notes
The story
Nestled at the eastern edge of Galicia, the Ribeiro DO is split by three rivers. Coto de Gomariz is located in the zone of Ribeiro where the slopes overlook the Avia river and consists of 27 hectares. Shisteous, granitic and sandy soils, steep slopes, tiny yields and a unique microclimate make this spot ideal for growing the local varieties which include Treixadura, Godello, Loureira and Albariño. Owner Ricardo Carreiro and winemaker Xosé Lois Sebio have introduced biodynamic principles such as bottling only on fruit days and are producing great organic wines at sensible prices.
The wine
This wine is produced organically, from native Galician grape variety, Treixadura, which is known for producing wines that are light, finessed and full of citrus fruits and white flowers; this dry white wine is all of those and more - medium-bodied, concentrated and yet surprisingly refreshing which gives it a certain lightness.
Very similar to the previous vintage, this wine is unoaked and yet shows an amazing depth and range of flavours, a medium body and a creamy texture and taste, the wine is complex and there is a surprising acidity for such a medium-bodied wine. It is a lovely golden colour, smells heavenly - think lemon, lime, kiwi fruit, baked apple with some toasty aromas. On the palate the fruits develop adding white peaches and pears but the texture is the highlight for me - smooth, creamy, full-bodied yet fruity and light. It is a really classy wine.
This wine reminds me of a great Sémillon so why not try my fabulous Boekenhoofsklout Semillon 2014.
Food Pairing
Treixadura produces aromatic yet crisp white wines that are a great match for fish and seafood. Given its medium body, it will also stand up to stronger tasting food. Very food-friendly.
Producer's Notes
"The Flower and the Bee line aims to introduce native Galician grapes to a wider audience. This is a lovely full-flavoured white wine, with powerful flavours of herbs, pears and white peach. Real presence, but not at all heavy. Just lovely fruit intensity, and amazing freshness."
Awards
94 points & Highly Recommended Decanter Nov 2017
"A Treixadura with a herbal, leafy aspect and pithy undertones. It is powerful in its greenness, but there is also a caramelised pineapple complexity, with spice, richness and great personality."
90 points Robert Parker Aug 2017"The 2016 The Flower And The Bee Treixadura (labeled in Spanish as La Flor y la Abeja) is produced with Treixadura from the Avia Valley on granite-rich soils. It has a floral nose, very clean and precise, with very good freshness and very good acidity. It finishes dry, with the strict sensation of the granite."
