What is Albillo? Greater or Real? WE CLEAR IT UP FOR YOU!

Albillo is one of the oldest white grape varieties on the Iberian Peninsula, cultivated for centuries due to its versatility and unique organoleptic characteristics. Despite sharing the same name, not all Albillo grapes are the same. There are several sub-varieties, but two of the most important and distinct are Albillo Mayor and Albillo Real.

Albillo in the History of Wine

References to Albillo date back to the Middle Ages, when it was already appreciated for its early ripening and its ability to produce smooth, aromatic wines. Historical documents mention its cultivation in Castilla y León, Madrid, and other regions in central Spain, though each area has developed its own unique expression of the variety.

Throughout history, Albillo has been used in both single-varietal vinifications and blends with red grapes to bring freshness and balance. Its revaluation in recent years has revealed its true potential in high-quality white wines.

One of the reasons for confusion around Albillo is that, over time, different varieties have been called by the same name. However, ampelographic studies have clearly distinguished Albillo Mayor and Albillo Real, each with its own personality.

Differences Between Albillo Real and Albillo Mayor

ALBILLO REAL: AROMATIC AND SMOOTH

Albillo Real is more widely found in the Community of Madrid, the Sierra de Gredos, and parts of Castilla-La Mancha. It stands out for its strong aromatic expression and lower acidity compared to Albillo Mayor, resulting in rounder, more enveloping wines.

Characteristics of Albillo Real:

• Small, compact clusters.

• Thin-skinned, golden-yellow berries.

• Moderate acidity, leading to smoother, rounder wines.

• Intense aromas of ripe fruit, honey, white flowers, and exotic notes.

• Smooth mouthfeel with a rich, silky profile.

Thanks to its sweet and expressive character, Albillo Real wines pair well with aged cheeses, white meats, and dishes with creamy sauces—making it a great option for fans of expressive white wines.

ALBILLO MAYOR: FRESHNESS AND STRUCTURE

Albillo Mayor is a native variety of Ribera del Duero, known for its balance between freshness and complexity. Although it was historically used to add volume to red wines, its potential in whites has sparked great interest among winemakers in recent decades.

Characteristics of Albillo Mayor:

• Medium-sized, compact clusters.

• Medium-sized berries with thick, resilient skins.

• Good natural acidity, which brings freshness to the wines.

• Floral and fruity aromas, with notes of peach, apricot, and pear.

• Strong barrel-aging potential, giving the wines structure and elegance.

Wines made with Albillo Mayor are fresh, balanced, and have excellent gastronomic potential, pairing beautifully with seafood, fatty fish, and rich dishes.

Albillo in Red Wines: A Well-Kept Secret

Though now mostly associated with white wines, Albillo—especially Albillo Mayor—has been used for centuries in small amounts in blends with red varieties, particularly in regions like Ribera del Duero. This traditional practice had a clear goal: to soften the wine’s structure, add a subtle freshness, and enhance aromas, balancing the power of red grapes. Thanks to its natural acidity and aromatic profile, Albillo helped create rounder, more elegant wines without losing identity. This age-old technique is still used today as a way to reinterpret tradition with a modern perspective.

The Future of Albillo Mayor at Pradorey

The growing interest in native grape varieties has driven the revival of Albillo, especially Albillo Mayor, which has become a benchmark for crafting quality white wines in Ribera del Duero. Its freshness and aging capacity make it ideal for long-lived wines, reaffirming its value in the region’s viticulture.

At Bodegas y Viñedos Pradorey, we believe in the importance of preserving and revaluing these unique varieties. Our blend of tradition and innovation allows us to explore new expressions in the glass, creating wines that showcase authenticity, character, and a strong connection to our land.

This philosophy is reflected in our wine range, some of which already include Albillo Mayor in their composition. However, with our latest creation, FincaLos Quemados 2023, we’ve gone a step further by producing a 100% Albillo Mayor single-varietal, grown using an ecological and sustainable approach. On this estate, we’ve selected the best clones and applied ancestral techniques inspired by Columella’s viticulture, avoiding herbicides and pesticides.

The unique soil combination and meticulous vineyard management allow us to offer a wine that expresses the essence of Albillo Mayor in Ribera del Duero with purity and elegance. We will continue exploring new techniques and processes to unlock the full potential of this variety, convinced that Albillo’s future lies not only in its past, but in its ability to keep surprising us—one glass at a time.