At Mar de Frades, we love to look beyond the expected. To discover pairings that break the rules of tradition, yet feel entirely natural when wine meets authenticity. Our Albariño, with its vibrant freshness, distinctive minerality, and delicate saline notes, is a chameleon at the table—adapting to a variety of cuisines and elevating every bite.

Today, we’re taking a journey through three international dishes that, when paired with our Albariño, reveal surprising and utterly delicious connections.

ITALY
Pasta with Pesto & Mar de Frades Albariño

Pasta with pesto instantly transports us to Liguria, basking in Mediterranean sunshine. The fragrant basil, the creamy richness of pine nuts, and the depth of Parmesan find a refreshing counterpoint in Albariño. The citrusy brightness of our Albariño cleanses the palate after each mouthful, while its saline edge resonates beautifully with the umami of aged cheese and the aromatic lift of fresh herbs. A pairing that speaks of the sea, the sun, and a timeless Italian tradition—perfectly in tune.

JAPAN
Sushi & Mar de Frades Albariño

Sushi is the epitome of balance—rice, raw fish, soy sauce, wasabi—each element perfectly poised. Our Albariño steps in not to overshadow, but to enhance. Its crisp acidity accentuates the texture of the fish and cuts through the richness of fattier varieties like salmon. Floral and oceanic notes intertwine seamlessly with soy sauce, while the wine’s saline finish mirrors the briny iodine of nori. It’s a refined meeting of flavors where wine and sushi move in harmony, in the spirit of Japanese elegance.

FRANCE
Steak Tartare & Mar de Frades Albariño

With its bold mix of raw beef, mustard, capers, and spices, steak tartare calls for a wine of both structure and freshness. Mar de Frades Albariño rises to the challenge, cleansing the palate and balancing the flavors without masking the intricate seasoning. Served alongside simple potatoes and mussels—a pairing that stands beautifully on its own—you’ll rediscover the captivating connection between the wine’s saline, mineral character and the depth of the sea.

These pairings don’t just impress with their harmony and flavor—they’re also effortlessly fresh, easy to prepare, and made for summer. Whether it’s a pasta salad packed for a seaside picnic or a plate of steak tartare enjoyed at sunset with mussels on the side, Mar de Frades Albariño proves that it’s a wine meant to go far beyond the expected.