Albariño Exports to U.S. Hit $25.8 Million as Rías Baixas Wines Reach Nearly 3 Million Liters Sold

Albariño wines from the D.O. Rías Baixas region in Spain have reached record sales in the United States, according to new data released by the Consejo Regulador of D.O. Rías Baixas. For the period from September 1, 2024, to August 31, 2025, exports to the U.S. climbed to $25.8 million, a 1.6% increase over the previous year. Volume also rose by 2.6%, reaching 2.925 million liters. The U.S. now accounts for 34% of all Rías Baixas Albariño exports by volume, making it the leading global market for these wines.

The average price per liter for Rías Baixas wines sold to U.S. distributors dropped slightly by 1%, from 7.99€ to 7.91€ ex-cellar. This decrease reflects efforts by producers to support their international partners as they face economic challenges, including tariffs and shifting market conditions.

Rías Baixas is a small wine region located in Galicia on Spain’s Atlantic coast. The area is known for its cool climate and granitic soils, which are ideal for growing Albariño grapes. Production levels are naturally limited due to the region’s size and susceptibility to short harvests, but this year’s harvest set a new record in both quality and quantity, ensuring that producers can meet rising global demand.

Industry analysts attribute the continued growth in U.S. sales to strong recognition of quality and increasing consumer interest in Albariño wines. The grape variety is native to Galicia and produces white wines that are crisp, aromatic, and marked by citrus, stone fruit, and floral notes. High acidity and versatility have made Albariño a favorite among sommeliers and wine enthusiasts alike.

Over the past 25 years, exports of Albariño from Rías Baixas to the U.S. have grown dramatically—from just 244,000 liters to nearly 3 million liters annually. This sustained growth highlights both the unique character of the region’s wines and the dedication of its growers and winemakers to building relationships with American consumers.

In response to growing demand from sommeliers and wine drinkers over the last five years, Rías Baixas wineries have introduced a new quality tier called Vinos de Colección. These wines showcase different expressions of Albariño through extended lees aging (from six months up to five years), single vineyard bottlings, experiments with wood contact, and sparkling wines made using traditional methods.

For ten consecutive years, D.O. Rías Baixas has outperformed other Spanish wine categories in both volume and value growth in the U.S., supported by targeted marketing campaigns and trade education efforts aimed at positioning Rías Baixas as a world-class white wine region alongside France and New Zealand.

Looking ahead, the region is preparing for its fourth Rías Baixas Roadshow in April 2025—a multi-city tour across the United States featuring more than 20 visiting winemakers who will present new releases and rare selections directly to American trade professionals and consumers.

Globally, D.O. Rías Baixas has also reported positive trends with overall export growth of 6.8% in volume and 7.2% in value across all markets this year. Of the region’s 161 wineries, more than two-thirds are active exporters. Many of these producers are small family-run businesses for whom international sales play a crucial role in supporting local economies throughout Galicia.

The latest figures confirm that Albariño wines from Rías Baixas continue to gain ground in the competitive U.S. market while maintaining their reputation for quality and authenticity on a global scale.