Mar de Frades

Jessica Walker

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Founded in 1987, Mar de Frades is an acclaimed Rías Baixas DO producer of exhilaratingly fresh white wines that capture the vitality of the Atlantic Ocean. Head Winemaker Paula Fandiño brings boundless energy and a deep passion for her home region, Val do Salnés, situated on Galicia’s Northwest coast. The Atlantic is deeply intertwined with local life, and the area is celebrated for its crisp sea breezes, white sandy beaches, and world-renowned seafood. The landscape features rolling hills and lush forests filled with pine, ferns, heather, and eucalyptus, with the blue sea seemingly always in view. Small agricultural plots cover the area, featuring leafy, uniform pergolas with crops and vegetables growing underneath. The shallow soils are sandy with traces of clay atop granite bedrock, allowing minimal water retention, which suits the region's wet climate with annual rainfall of up to 1,700 mm.

Mar de Frades is located at a notably high altitude for the region, at 130 meters above sea level, compared to the typical 0–50 meters. Locals initially thought Mar de Frades was taking a risk planting at this height and within a forest, but this bold choice has paid off. Albariño is their flagship grape, and the Mar de Frades style showcases vibrant aromatics, refreshing acidity, texture from lees ageing, and a mouthwatering saline finish. Vineyard practices are carefully adapted to the unique Atlantic climate, taking into account factors like humidity and sea winds. This includes special vine training systems and meticulous manual work to ensure high-quality grapes at harvest.

Paula, a brilliant winemaker recognised as one of the Drinks Business’ Top 10 Most Influential Spanish Winemakers, is a 'tireless innovator' unafraid to experiment. She pioneered the traditional method for sparkling Albariño Brut, introduced iconic blue bottles, and developed thermochromic labels (look out for the yacht). She utilizes a mix of stainless steel, concrete vats, and even a vat carved from local granite. Once at the winery, the Albariño grapes are pressed and undergo a low-temperature fermentation, followed by three months of lees contact with regular stirring. This process balances the naturally high acidity and creates a velvety mouthfeel.

As part of their commitment to sustainability, Mar de Frades is a member of the International Wineries for Climate Protection. They’ve implemented sustainable practices like reducing bottle weight, using organic fertilizers, and installing smart irrigation systems for efficient water management.