Albariño
White Grape of NW Spain

Albariño is a white grape variety primarily grown in Galicia, northwest Spain, and parts of northern Portugal (where it is called "Alvarinho"). It's known for producing aromatic, high-acid wines with a distinctive mineral quality.
Taste Profile: Wines made from Albariño are typically aromatic and exhibit flavors of citrus (like lemon and grapefruit), stone fruits (like apricot and peach), and sometimes tropical fruits. These wines often have floral aromatics and may possess mineral notes reminiscent of saline or wet stone, likely due to the coastal influence in many of the grape's growing regions.
Regions of note:
Spain: The grape is most famously associated with the Rías Baixas DO (Denominación de Origen) in Galicia, Spain. Here, the cool, rainy climate and granitic soils contribute to the high acidity and mineral quality of the wines.
Portugal: In Portugal, Alvarinho is found primarily in the Vinho Verde region. It's one of the high-quality grapes used in the region's light, slightly effervescent wines.
Viticulture: Albariño vines traditionally were trained in a pergola system, which raised the vines off the ground, allowing better air circulation to combat humidity and potential diseases.
Winemaking: While most Albariño wines are made in a fresh, unoaked style to highlight the grape's aromatic qualities, some producers experiment with oak aging or lees stirring for added texture and complexity.
Pairing: Thanks to its high acidity and subtle salinity, Albariño is a fantastic wine to pair with seafood, especially dishes like shellfish, ceviche, and grilled fish. Its crispness also complements salads, light chicken dishes, and Asian cuisine.
Growing Popularity: Though best known from Spain and Portugal, Albariño is starting to be cultivated in other parts of the world. Wine regions with cooler climates, such as California, Oregon, and New Zealand, are experimenting with the grape, producing their unique expressions.
Bottling: In the Rías Baixas region, Albariño is often bottled in a distinctive taller and slender bottle, different from the typical wider white wine bottle.