2024 Paco y Lola Ophalum Albarino

Paco y Lola is one of the most iconic cooperatives in Spain’s Rías Baixas, representing over 400 small growers in the premium Salnés Valley. With average family plots measuring just half a hectare, this is essentially a community of backyard vignerons who are entirely focused on sustainable and organic farming.

The Ophalum is their entry-level Albariño, and it is easily one of the best-value seafood whites you'll see out of Spain. To differentiate it from their flagship bottling, the winery uses a touch more press juice to capture a slightly riper, more generous style of fruit. It’s fermented cool in stainless steel and aged on fine lees to give the palate a bit of textural weight without losing its shape.

The 2024 vintage hits with green apple, citrus peel, and a soft wave of tropical notes like pineapple and lychee. Of course, it wouldn't be classic Salnés Valley without that signature Atlantic influence - there is a great lick of sea spray and flinty minerality from the granitic soils running right through it. It’s crisp, lively, and an absolute steal for anyone who loves fresh, saline whites.