IRIA OTERO

Having studied Pharmacy in London in 2002, she left the business to follow her dream in 2022 and now holds a PhD in Enology from the University of La Rioja. Her knowledge and experience in winemaking is focused on the indigenous grapes from Galicia. Using tradition as her guide, the viticulture is based on sustainable, low yields with slow elaborations. 

Iria specializes in small production wines from old vineyards and local varieties across Galicia. Based in the Ribeiro region but with 1ha of vines in Rias Biaxas, she is focused on responsible and organic viticulture while concentrating on cultivating and selecting fruit with precision and care.

The ‘Sal’ Albariño is a ‘shared’ endeavour between Iria and friends with vineyards in the Val do Salnés sub-region of Rias Biaxas; the wine takes it’s name from the salt flats that once covered the area where vineyards are now planted. The proximity to the cool breezes of the Atlantic and maritime fog also impart an electric acidity in the wine. The soils are granite and Xabre (decomposing granite) with Alluvial deposits, gravel and sand which add to the complexity of the terroir. This mixed soil maximizes the fresh and saline profile of Albariño, the grapes are fermented in stainless steel tanks with a short ageing on the fine lees to balance the structure. 

The wine is ‘discreet and elegant but also enjoyable and fun; it speaks of the landscape and tradition of the area’. Iria Otero