FLC #22 - Pablo Martinez Gago / Bodegas Casa Monte Pio

Casa Monte Pio was founded in 1979 by Jose María Martinez; now his grandson Pablo Martinez Gago carries the family tradition as the owner and winemaker. Pablo’s passion lies in the vineyard and he has dedicated himself to organic viticulture and craft wine production. His vineyards are located within walking distance of their family home, in the heart of the Val do Salnés near the Río Umia.

A few months ago we were in contact with Pablo, and he summed up his philosophy more beautifully than we could hope to do so ourselves. When describing his work, he shared the following: ‘We are conscious that the secret of a good wine is in the soil, to make the most out of our native varieties and to obtain the best grapes; each harvest we interpret the vineyards in a different way, considering each vine like a living being… Each bottle contains the mystery of a land and its unique grapes; an inimitable light and aroma; an incomparable tradition.’

Pablo focuses on taking the best from his ancestors’ heritage and adapting it for modern tastes. He is intensely proud of the Galician landscape, and knows it is what makes his wines unique. The wines are designed to inspire and call you back for more. Galicia’s Albariño variety is distinctly influenced by the Atlantic Ocean’s cool breezes and salty soils, and most importantly it is refreshing and delicious.

This month we have selected one of Pablo’s top wines, ‘Ledes’ Albariño. This is a fuller-bodied and complex style of Albariño.

Pablo hand-harvests the grapes from 55-year-old vines to ensure that only the best grapes are selected. After fermentation, the wine is left to age on the lees for 12 months before bottling. In the glass this wine is golden in colour due to the extended ageing. This is a unique example of Albariño, one that we think will appeal to both lovers of the crisp, simpler styles and those who like a more robust white wine. A perfect white wine for our transition into spring!