Albarino

Albariño is a vibrant white wine crafted from the Albariño grape, predominantly grown in Spain's renowned Rías Baixas region. Known for its bright, refreshing profile, it bursts with zesty citrus flavors like lemon and lime, complemented by subtle notes of stone fruits. Its crisp and approachable character makes Albariño a delightfully easy wine to enjoy.

The Albariño grape is primarily cultivated in Spain's Rías Baixas region and Portugal's Vinho Verde region, where it is known as Alvarinho. These cooler, lowland climates provide ideal conditions for the grape, though frequent rainfall creates high humidity, making the small, green-skinned grapes vulnerable to rot and mildew.

To combat this, winemakers carefully train the vines to promote airflow around the leaves and grapes, ensuring a healthy and abundant harvest.

Albariño has also gained popularity outside its European roots. In the U.S., most vines are planted along California’s Central Coast. Additionally, Uruguay, Chile, Brazil and New Zealand have thriving Albariño vineyards, showcasing its global appeal.

Albariño wine is known for its dry, crisp and zesty profile, featuring bright citrus flavors and hints of stone fruits. Its refreshing character makes it a versatile choice for a variety of occasions and meal pairings.

Albariño wine is a fantastic pairing for seafood, including grilled shrimp, oysters and ceviche—a natural fit given its coastal origins. Its high acidity and layered flavors make it an excellent aperitif and a versatile companion for appetizers. The wine’s flinty, mineral notes enhance Mediterranean classics like paella and tapas, as well as cheeses such as Burrata, Gouda and Feta. Albariño also pairs beautifully with mild to moderately spiced southeast Asian dishes, making it a globally appealing choice.

Most Albariño wines are dry, light-bodied white wines with bright acidity and moderate alcohol levels, typically ranging from 11.5% to 13% ABV.

Grown in coastal regions, Albariño often carries a subtle saline quality that complements its zesty citrus and delicate floral aromas, creating the crisp, refreshing character that defines its signature style.

Albariño wines boast enticing aromas of fresh lime, grapefruit, pear and honeysuckle. On the palate, you’ll find vibrant fruit flavors like:

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

The thicker skins of Albariño grapes add a subtle, pleasant bitter note that refreshes the palate, inviting you back for another sip.

When aged on the lees (the spent yeast cells that settle at the bottom of the barrel), Albariño can develop bready, toast-like aromas and a creamier, more rounded texture, adding depth to its refreshing character.

Spanish Albariño wines are known for their floral aromas and vibrant flavors of melon, apricot and citrus, accented by a subtle salinity from the nearby Atlantic Ocean. While lively and crisp, these wines often have a slightly viscous texture, lending them a smoother, more rounded mouthfeel. In Portugal, Albariño (known as Alvarinho) typically features lower alcohol levels, highlighting fresh, saline and mineral-driven flavors that showcase its maritime roots.

Albariño wines are best enjoyed young, typically within four years of their vintage. For optimal enjoyment, serve Albariño well-chilled (43 to 46°F) in a standard white wine glass to enhance its crisp, fresh character.