nanclares y prieto soverribas albariño 2021

alberto nanclares y silvia prieto had a catastrophic 2023 vintage, when they only got 3,300 kilos of grapes from their vineyards (they usually get around 18,000 kilos), as they had a massive mildew attack. their normal production is around 50,000 bottles (they also buy grapes), but in 2023, it will be much less. after this, they decided to make some changes in their viticulture and also to restructure their portfolio a little, as they had up to 21 different wines! i tasted mostly 2021 and 2022 in white and 2020 and 2021 in red. 2021 was challenging: it was cool with mildew, and they didn't treat the vines. they had ripening problems, and the wines have low alcohol—many grapes were picked at 11% with more freshness. 2021 was not a harvest for reds. 2022 was warmer, with grapes that were a little riper and rounder wines. as for 2020, it was warm and dry, but they also had fungal attacks. it was better for reds. the piquant 2021 soverribas has a very different nose, lifted and peculiar, with a mustard-like twist, maybe with a volatile hint. in 2021, they used the same manzaniña vineyard and, if needed (to complete the vat), the nearby vineyards. it's very tasty and sharp, clean and transparent, with a note of honeysuckle. fresh and light, with only 11% alcohol. a second bottle felt a little more civilized.