By Jon Cellier - Head of Wine & Business Intelligence, Perfect Cellar
For years, Albariño has been the darling of Spanish white wines. It's zesty, fresh, and a staple on summer tables. But there’s a new kid on the block making waves: Treixadura. This native grape from Galicia, especially in the hands of innovative winemakers like those at Bodegas El Paraguas, is showing it can rival - and even redefine - what we expect from Spanish whites.
If you like the crisp, sea-breeze freshness of Albariño, then you'll love Treixadura even more.
Bodegas El Paraguas Atlantico 2023 is bright, expressive, and layered with citrus, white peach, and a gentle floral lift. Where Albariño often charms with its sharp minerality and zing, Treixadura brings a softer, rounder texture and a touch more complexity on the palate: think stone fruit, subtle herbs, and a creamy edge from a whisper of oak. This is a wine made for summer: chilled glasses on a sunny terrace, laughter with friends, and that easy, effortless elegance that turns any moment into a celebration. It’s a lifestyle wine - vibrant, modern, and perfect for those opened to tasting new styles of wines.
Behind El Paraguas Atlantico are two passionate winemakers: Felicísimo Pereira, a fourth-generation Galician vigneron and former president of the Ribeiro DO, and Marcial Pita, a respected wine journalist-turned-winemaker. Their mission is to showcase the full potential of Treixadura and the unique terroir of Ribeiro. The region’s Atlantic climate brings cooling breezes and rainfall, while sandy, granite-rich soils lend clarity and precision to the wines. Each vineyard parcel is harvested and vinified separately, with careful blending and a touch of French oak for added texture. The result is a wine that’s as much about craftsmanship and place as it is about pleasure.
Ribeiro is quickly becoming one of Spain’s most exciting white wine regions. Once overshadowed by its famous neighbour Rías Baixas, it’s now gaining recognition for vibrant, food-friendly wines that match the region’s relaxed, convivial lifestyle. Personally, Ribeiro was the best discovery for me at Barcelona Wine Week and I’m genuinely pleased to see more wines emerging from this region, where producers still resist the temptation to mass-produce commercial wines; a path that Albariño has unfortunately followed in recent years.
Treixadura is leading the charge, offering a fresh alternative for those who crave character and authenticity in their glass. Bodegas El Paraguas Atlantico stands as a benchmark for this new wave: energetic, expressive, and a perfect partner for everything from pairing with food to sipping during a casual afternoon in the sun. I hope this spirit continues!