Named after a 13th century Galician poet, Martin Codax is probably the best known of all Albarino wines. The Albarino grape is reputed to be a relative of German riesling and may have been brought to Spain by monks as far back as the 12th century. It is grown in the Rias Baixas region of Galicia, which is snuggled in between Portugal and the Basque country on the rugged and beautiful Atlantic shores.
Martin Codax is a name given to this white wine by the group of small producers who have banded together to make wine in the Bodegas de Vilarino-Cambados. This wine has floral overtones and is typified by the peach or melon aromas that are always present. A flinty, dry white, it is suitable for summer drinking and goes well with summer dishes such as salads or seafood.