The 2020 Candea Blanco is a beautifully vibrant and mineral-driven white from José Luis Mateo’s acclaimed Quinta da Muradella estate in Monterrei, Galicia. Conceived as a fresher and more approachable expression of the region’s Atlantic terroir, the wine blends indigenous varieties including Treixadura, Doña Blanca, Verdello and Godello sourced from organically farmed vineyards around Tamagos on granite, slate and clay soils. Fermented naturally with indigenous yeasts and aged primarily in stainless steel and neutral vessels, the wine reflects Mateo’s philosophy of purity, freshness and transparency rather than oak influence or excessive weight. The cooler Atlantic influence gives the wine remarkable tension and aromatic precision despite the warm inland climate.
The nose reveals preserved lemon, pear and green apple layered alongside white flowers, fennel and wet stone minerality, giving the wine impressive aromatic lift and freshness. On the palate, it is light to medium-bodied with vibrant natural acidity, silky texture and a finely balanced saline core. Layers of citrus peel, orchard fruit and subtle herbal complexity unfold with excellent energy and mineral tension, finishing dry, stony and beautifully persistent with outstanding drinkability. The blend of native Galician varieties gives the wine both texture and brightness, balancing Mediterranean generosity with distinctly Atlantic freshness.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The 2020 Candea Blanco is a superb modern Galician white — mineral, vibrant and beautifully refreshing with outstanding purity and drinkability. Perfect with oysters, grilled fish, octopus, fresh goat’s cheese, seafood rice dishes or lighter Mediterranean cuisine. Enjoy now through 2028.
