I was recently invited to Row 34, a restaurant on my “must try” list, to learn more about the 2012 Martin Códax Albariño. At first sip, I was on board and after a meal of pairings I decided that I would definitely add this as one of my summer wine staples. It has a really clean, bright taste with the crisp dryness that I like, but not too dry so those dinner guests, or I just was in the neighborhood and I popped in guests, who enjoy a sweeter wine can still enjoy it.
The reason I plan on having this Albariño stocked in my wine fridge is that it took on different characteristics with each course.
It paired beautifully with oysters and a Thai style ceviche.
The wine was even brighter with a crudo that had a fried shallot or onion that just transformed the taste of the Albariño.
It was delectable with lobster and continued to pair perfectly all the way through dessert which was a pound cake with lemon glaze and berries.
If I keep a bottle of the Martin Códax Albariño in the fridge I know I can pull it out to share with friends over an aperitif of olives, bruschetta or other such small bites. I know I can whip up a batch of mussels and it will be perfect with a glass of the wine in the mussels and with the mussels. I know I can have friends over for a girls’ night in with popcorn, a little dark chocolate and a nicely chilled glass of the Albariño. 
Leah's Life: Pearls and Oysters 
Albarino’s one of the great unsung heroes of summer, standing at the back of the crowd of roses vying for everyone’s attention. Ken
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Have you tried this one? Do you have a favourite Albariño?
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Nah. I just like Albarino. I’ always on the lookout for alternative to chardonnay–I don’t drink most California wines and I can’t afford to drink most white Burgundies casually, ergo Albarino. I also like trying varietals that have been neglected–and are now being revived–or were never exported to the US.
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I am NOT a wine drinker but I totally would if that meant I had that lobster dinner with it. Yum!
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It was so good! I highly recommend Row 34 wine or not.
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Wow, Leah! That lobster dish looks amazing. I think I’ll have to try out Row 34 AND the wine! I love discovering a new wine – thanks for the tip!
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Definitely. You’ll love Row 34 too.
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Let me know when that popcorn, chocolate and wine night is because YES!
I’m always on the lookout for a nice light wine in the summertime. I’ll have to check this one out. What’s the price point?
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It’s a great summer wine and reasonable. I think it is $12-15. I think we might need a back to school parent party with popcorn chocolate and wine!
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Sounds like a relaxing choice for a variety of get togethers. Not to mention the fact it pairs so well with a variety of foods. I wish I liked wine…. I know, crazy! Maybe I just haven’t had the right one yet. Mmmm, that pound cake with lemon glaze and berries sounds delectable.
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You really don’t like wine?! Any kind? Are you a beer drinker or cocktail drinker or nothing alcoholic? If you drink at all I’d have to guess that you just haven’t had the right wine yet :).
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Sounds like a good wine to try. We may have to look into that.
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It’s very nice and not too expensive so it’s a great summer wine to have on hand.
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