Albariño

Albariño is a white wine made from the Albariño grape, primarily grown in the Rías Baixas region of Spain. It tastes bright and refreshing, with zesty flavors of citrus, like lemon and lime, and hints of stone fruits, making it very enjoyable and easy to drink.

The Albariño grape is grown primarily in the Rias Baixas region in the northwest of Spain and in the Vinho Verde region of Portugal, where it is known as Alvarinho.

The Albariño grape thrives in the cooler climates of these lowland regions, although the frequent rainfall can create high humidity levels that leave the small, green-skinned grapes susceptible to rot and mildew.

To prevent this, winemakers train the vines as they grow to ensure sufficient airflow around the leaves and grapes to encourage a good harvest.

Albariño is also grown in the U.S., with most vines planted in the central coast areas of California. Uruguay, Chile, Brazil and New Zealand are also home to Albariño vineyards.

Albariño wine is typically dry, showcasing crisp and zesty flavors, with notes of citrus and stone fruits, making it a refreshing choice for many different types of occasions and meals.

Albariño wine pairs very well with seafood, especially dishes like grilled shrimp, oysters or ceviche (which makes sense, since its homeland is by the sea).

Its high acidity and complex flavors make it the ideal aperitif and great for a wide variety of appetizers, too. The flinty, mineral tones also complement classic Mediterranean dishes, such as paella and tapas, along with cheeses like Burrata, Gouda and salty Feta. We also love to pair Albariño with mild to moderately spiced southeast Asian dishes.

Most Albariño wines are dry white wines, light in body and high in acidity, with moderate alcohol levels ranging from around 11.5%-13% ABV.

As the grapes are grown in maritime areas, the wines can have a saline element that intertwines with zesty citrus and floral aromas, adding to Albariño’s trademark refreshing style.

Albariño wines exude aromas of fresh lime, grapefruit, pear, and honeysuckle. On the palate, expect classic fruit notes such as:

• Nectarine
• Grapefruit
• Lemon curd
• Apple
• Pineapple
• Honeydew
• Tangerine

The Albariño grapes’ thicker skins can contribute a subtle and pleasing bitter tinge that helps refresh the palate and make you want to come back for another sip.

Some Albariño wines, if aged on their lees (the spent yeast cells that naturally sink to the bottom of a barrel), may have toasty, bread-like aromas and a creamier, more rounded texure on the palate.

Spanish-grown Albariño wines contain floral notes alongside tones of melon, apricot, and citrus fruit combined with hints of salinity from the Atlantic Ocean. Although lively and crisp, they may have an additional viscous texture, which gives them a smoother feel.

Portuguese-grown Albariño wines are often lower in alcohol with fresh, saline, and mineral flavors.

Albariño wines are usually best drunk young—within four years of the vintage date. Serve your Albariño chilled (between 43 and 46° F) in a traditional white wine glass.