Spanish White Wine

Discovering a good white wine from Spain is easier than you might think. Spain is home to over 400 native grape varieties, alongside international ones, offering a remarkable array of wine styles and flavors. While reds like Rioja often steal the spotlight, white wines made from grapes like Airén, Albariño, Garnacha Blanca, Godello, Verdejo and Viura are all equally worthy of attention.

As one of the world’s oldest wine-producing regions, Spain boasts a winemaking heritage that spans thousands of years. This rich history, combined with an incredible variety of native grapes, has led to the creation of white wines that are both distinctive and unique.

Spain is home to many native and international grape varieties. Here are a few of the notable native grapes:

• Airén: Neutral and light, often used in blends
• Albariño: Crisp and aromatic, with stone fruit and citrus notes
• Verdejo: Fresh and zesty, often with tropical flavors
• Garnacha Blanca: Can be fuller-bodied, with herbal and citrus nuances
• Godello: Elegant, mineral-driven and versatile
• Viura (also called Macabeo): Common in Rioja whites and Cava

Spanish white wines range from crisp and dry (Albariño, Verdejo) to rich and aromatic (Godello, Garnacha Blanca), sweet (Moscatel, PX) and bubbly (Cava, made with Macabeo and Parellada).

To pick a good Spanish white, consider the style: try Albariño or Verdejo for crisp, zesty flavors; Godello or Garnacha Blanca for richer, complex notes; Cava for bubbly; and Moscatel for sweetness. Look for well-rated producers or trusted regions like Rías Baixas and Rueda.

Spanish white wines pair beautifully with seafood like grilled shrimp or octopus, tapas such as patatas bravas or garlic prawns and cheeses like Manchego. Albariño complements shellfish, Verdejo pairs well with salads or light poultry and Cava is perfect with fried foods or charcuterie.