The Wine Reference🍷 SupportAlbariño grape
Albariño is a white grape known for peach, citrus, saline. Its best-known homes are Rías Baixas, Vinho Verde.
Origin and history
Native to Galicia in north-west Spain and Portugal's Minho; the story that monks brought it from the Rhine is a myth.
Where it grows
Rías Baixas (Val do Salnés, O Rosal, Condado do Tea) in Spain; Monção e Melgaço in Vinho Verde; also Uruguay, California and New Zealand.
Structure
Light to medium body, high acidity, usually dry, with a slightly saline, mouthwatering finish.
Aromas, young and aged
Young: white peach, apricot, lemon, grapefruit and sea salt. With age: honey, nuts and a petrol-like note.
Ageing
Most best within 1–3 years; top Rías Baixas and Monção e Melgaço can age 5–10 years.
Also known as
Alvarinho (Portugal), Alvarín Blanco.
Good to know
Rías Baixas vines are often trained on high granite pergolas ('parras') to let the Atlantic breeze dry the grapes and prevent rot.
Wine regions for Albariño
Albariño wines to try
Real bottles from The Wine Library.
Pazo de Señoráns Albariño
Aromatic and salty-fresh: peach, citrus and sea breeze.
Food: Octopus, shellfish
Bodega Garzón Albariño Reserva
Atlantic-fresh: peach, citrus, white flowers and a saline finish.
Food: Grilled prawns, octopus, fish tacos
Terras Gauda Abadía de San Campio Albariño
Fresh, peachy Albariño with saline Atlantic freshness.
Food: Seafood, octopus
Terras Gauda O Rosal
Rías Baixas · Albariño, Caíño Blanco, Loureiro
O Rosal blend: citrus, white flowers and herbal lift.
Food: Shellfish, grilled fish
Emilio Rojo Emilio Rojo
Ribeiro · Treixadura, Lado, Albariño, Loureiro
Cult Ribeiro blend, delicate and aromatic with citrus, stone fruit and lively acidity.
Food: Scallops, octopus, steamed fish
Similar white grapes
Explore all grapes in the interactive guide
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