Redmetal Vineyards “Sur Lie” Albariño

Grant Edmonds brings 30 years of professional winemaking back home to Bridge Pa with Redmetal Vineyards. The name Redmetal is a reference to the distinctive red-tinged greywacke gravels found specifically in the soils of the Bridge Pa growing area. The red colour comes from the high iron content in the soil here–ancient residue from the North Island’s volcanic eruptions. The wines here are thought to have a particular “depth” and complexity due in part to this special soil character. 

And if you don’t care so much about dirt? That’s ok. Stick to the pale yellow liquid in your glass here. Fleshy fruit aromas and flavours, absolutely irresistible acidity and that salty something that the Albariño grape somehow achieves. The sort of wine that works for pretty much any time of day, and doesn’t necessarily need food. But oh! Do try it with kai moana. Albariño is a winner with all the bounty of the sea. It’s also awesome with fresh herb flavours–think gremolata or chimichuri. 

If you’re wondering, “Sur Lie” means “with lees” in French. This is a winemaking method and style in which the wine spends time in contact with the expended yeasts before being separated. This can enhance the textural weight and roundness as well as the complexity of a wine.