Kimura Cellars Nelson Albariño 2025

Albarino is Back!

Albarino is a grape variety grown in the coastal regions of Spain and Portugal.

Known for its freshness and minerality, it produces a wine with a subtle, salty character. For this reason, it is often called a "Wine of the Sea," offering unique flavors that evoke the ocean breeze.

In 2022, Kimura Cellars released its first Albarino as a limited-edition project, and it sold out in no time. Its wonderful flavor profile gained a large following.

In response to such eager anticipation, a new vintage of Albarino has arrived after two years, with a taste that has evolved even further.

The grapes are sourced from Nelson, a port town located at the northernmost tip of New Zealand's South Island.

The grapes, purchased directly from farmers trusted by Mr. Kimura, come from 12-year-old vines planted in clay soil covered with gravel.

After harvest, they are carefully pressed and fermented at low temperatures in stainless steel tanks to maximize their fresh and vibrant aromas.

Let’s dive into the tasting.

The first scents you’ll notice are elegant floral notes reminiscent of jasmine, followed by sweet, rich aromas of citrus and tropical fruits.

Upon the first sip, you will be surprised by its density.

Flavors of quince and poached pear spread across the palate, joined by a refreshing herbal quality like mint.

Furthermore, you'll detect a gentle bitterness akin to citrus pith and a soft sweetness like honey, resulting in an overall rounded texture.

The finish retains a pleasant balance with a touch of minerality and saltiness.

The alcohol content is slightly higher at 14%.

While the previous Kimura Cellars Albarino was perhaps more of an easy-drinking style, this new vintage is a deep, complex wine meant to be savored slowly alongside a meal.

Given that it is a "Wine of the Sea," it pairs perfectly with seafood dishes.

Because it is a wine with a bit more weight, it matches beautifully with dishes that feature a good amount of oil and salinity.

For example:

• Octopus and sea bass carpaccio (drizzled generously with olive oil and topped with rock salt)
• Sardine escabeche
• Steamed mussels in white wine (with oil-based sauce)
• Broad bean and shrimp kakiage (tempura fritters)
• Small shrimp and shiitake mushroom fritto

Pairing the wine with dishes like these will further highlight its complex flavors.

Additionally, because of its robust flavor and body, it holds up well to oxidation, allowing you to enjoy it for up to three days after opening.

About "Kimura Cellars" Winery

"KIMURA CELLARS" is a family-owned winery run by Japanese winemaker Takahisa Kimura.

After studying viticulture and enology in New Zealand and gaining experience at various local wineries, Mr. Kimura established "Kimura Cellars" in Marlborough in 2009.

With a concept of "wines where you can see the face of the maker" and "a producer with a close connection to the consumer," he is committed to careful winemaking using organic farming methods.

In 2018, he began cultivating grapes in his own vineyard, a long-held dream, and has since put even more effort into organic farming.

The Kimura Cellars logo represents a "koru" (fern frond), an iconic New Zealand plant, rendered in the shape of a cherry blossom. The fern is a symbol of New Zealand, signifying "new beginnings," "growth," and "harmony."

About the Region: Nelson

Located in the northern part of the South Island, "Nelson" is affectionately known as "Sunny Nelson" due to its extremely long annual sunshine hours.

In this relatively small region, almost all of the producers are what are known as boutique wineries.

Taking advantage of the abundant sunshine, they mainly produce aromatic white wines such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, and Pinot Gris. Among red wines, Pinot Noir with solid fruit character is popular. Nelson is also famous as a center for hops and fruit production.

Kimura Cellars Nelson Albarino 2025