Albariño

Experience coastal elegance in a glass with Albariño. Crisp citrus, refreshing acidity, and a touch of sea breeze make it the perfect companion for seafood and sunny days.

About

Crisp Coastal Breeze in a Glass

Albariño, hailed as the "White Queen" of Spain, is an exceptional white wine grape variety renowned for its vibrant acidity, refreshing flavours, and coastal charm. This aromatic grape thrives in the picturesque Rías Baixas region of northwestern Spain, where its maritime influence imparts a unique character to its wines.

History

The history of Albariño traces its roots to the Rías Baixas region of Spain, where it has been cultivated for centuries. This coastal region's maritime influence and unique terroir have played a prominent role in shaping the grape's distinctive flavour profile. Albariño also thrives in Portugal, particularly in the Vinho Verde region, known as Alvarinho.

Overview

Albariño is synonymous with freshness. Its bright acidity and zesty citrus notes make it a quintessential choice for those seeking a refreshing white wine experience. This grape variety is renowned for producing wines that capture the essence of the sea breeze and coastal sunshine.

Taste Profile

Albariño wines are celebrated for their lively acidity and citrus-driven flavours: crisp green apple, zesty lime, and a white peach dance on the palate. A subtle mineral character adds complexity, while a hint of salinity evokes the coastal terroir. These elements combine to create a wine that is both refreshing and harmonious.

Colour

The colour of Albariño wine is a pale straw or lemon yellow, reflecting its youthful and vibrant character.

Flavours & Aromas

Albariño captivates with a bouquet of citrus blossoms and fresh orchard fruits. Aromas of lemon zest, green apple, and delicate white flowers fill the glass. These fragrant notes foreshadow the crisp, lively flavours that unfold on the palate.

Spice

While Albariño is not known for its spiciness, it occasionally exhibits subtle hints of white pepper or a touch of sea salt.

Taste

Vibrant, zesty, and invigorating.

Wine Structure

Cool climate – Dry, high acidity, 12.5-13.5% abv, light to medium body.

Warm climate – Dry, medium acidity, 13.5-14.5% abv, medium to full body.

Wine Styles

Albariño is predominantly crafted as a still, dry white wine. It may also be used in sparkling wine production, contributing to its versatility. In recent years, winemakers have experimented with extended lees aging and oak maturation, creating a range of Albariño styles, from youthful and fruit-forward to more complex and textured.

Food Pairing

Albariño's natural acidity and citrus notes make it an ideal companion for seafood, especially oysters, grilled shrimp, and ceviche. Its refreshing profile also pairs well with lighter dishes like salads, sushi, and Mediterranean cuisine.

Common Regions to Find Albariño

Albariño is primarily associated with the Rías Baixas region in Spain, where it thrives in the coastal vineyards. In Portugal, you can find it in the Vinho Verde region, particularly in the subregion of Monção e Melgaço. These coastal areas provide the ideal conditions for Albariño cultivation.

Summary

Albariño is a wine that embodies coastal elegance. With its vibrant acidity, citrus-driven flavours, and refreshing nature, Albariño captures the essence of coastal living. Its pale straw colour and aromatic bouquet set the stage for a sensory journey filled with crisp green apple, zesty lime, and subtle minerality.