Forjas del Salnés Leirana Albariño 2025 is one of the benchmark wines of the Rías Baixas appellation, crafted by Rodrigo Méndez, one of the most influential figures in modern Galician wine. Working alongside the legendary Raúl Pérez, Méndez has played a crucial role in recovering historic Albariño vineyards and redefining the quality and identity of Atlantic Spanish white wines.

Although Leirana is considered the estate's entry-level wine, it consistently ranks among the most authentic and terroir-driven Albariños produced in Galicia. Combining old-vine concentration with striking Atlantic freshness, it offers a compelling introduction to the distinctive character of the Salnés Valley.

The 2025 vintage comes from vineyards ranging between 40 and 85 years of age, planted on granite and sandy soils just 60 metres above sea level and only a short distance from the Atlantic Ocean. The vines are trained using traditional pergola systems and farmed sustainably, with all grapes harvested by hand.

Fermentation takes place with indigenous yeasts to preserve the vineyard's natural identity. The wine is then aged for eight months on its lees, with approximately 80% matured in oak foudres and 20% in stainless steel, adding texture and complexity while maintaining freshness and precision. Malolactic fermentation is avoided to preserve the wine's vibrant acidity and mineral profile.

The aromatic profile is intensely Atlantic, revealing notes of freshly cut grass, white flowers, citrus peel and sea breeze. On the palate, the wine is energetic and focused, displaying remarkable tension, granitic minerality and a distinctive saline character. Its combination of concentration, freshness and precision creates a long, mouthwatering finish that is unmistakably Rías Baixas.

The previous vintage received 94+ points from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, with critic Luis Gutiérrez praising its purity, aromatic complexity, granitic character and saline intensity, further reinforcing Leirana's status as one of Spain's most exciting white wines.

For lovers of mineral-driven white wines, Albariño and Atlantic terroirs, Forjas del Salnés Leirana Albariño 2025 represents one of the most authentic and compelling expressions of Galicia available today.

Food Pairing

Perfect with oysters, shellfish, grilled fish such as sea bass and sole, sashimi, tataki and refined seafood dishes. It also pairs beautifully with citrus-driven vegetarian cuisine and serves as an exceptional aperitif.