Zrate winery is a historic cellar in Ras Baixas, pioneering the development of Albario since the 18th century. Zrate Fontecn Tinto is a blend of 70% Espadeiro and 30% Caio Tinto, named for the plot from which it comes, Fontecn is very much a representation of its site. Poor thin soils over granite produce a wine that is chock full of fleshy red fruits and minerally salty notes with a nose that’s surprisingly rich and seductive. This whole-bunch juice is loaded with stemmy flavors of red fruits, cracked black pepper, and freshly cut herbs. Mouthfeel is very fresh, brisk, with tart fruit skin grip and predictably high coastal acidity. So pretty and light, clocking in at just below 12%. Average production of just 130 cases.
Not yet reviewed; 2019 vintage rated 93 points by Josh Raynolds (Vinous): “Brilliant violet. An expressive bouquet evokes black raspberry and cherry preserves, baking spices and smoky minerals, plus a hint of lavender in the background. Appealingly sweet and seamless in texture, offering palate-staining red and blue fruit flavors that show impressive depth and liveliness. The floral note repeats strongly on a very long, focused finish framed by fine-grained tannins.
