The Wine Reference🍷 SupportLoureiro grape
Loureiro is a white grape known for citrus, floral, herbs. Its best-known homes are Vinho Verde.
Origin and history
A native of north-west Iberia, grown in Portugal's Minho and Spain's Galicia; its name refers to the laurel (bay leaf) aroma.
Where it grows
Vinho Verde, especially the Lima and Cávado valleys, and Rías Baixas in Galicia (as Loureira).
Structure
Light body, high acidity and dry, often with a faint spritz.
Aromas, young and aged
Young: lemon, lime, orange blossom, bay leaf and acacia. With age: honeyed citrus and dried flowers.
Ageing
Best within 1–3 years; top examples can last 5 years.
Also known as
Loureira (Galicia).
Good to know
It is Vinho Verde's second key grape after Alvarinho, and often blended with Arinto and Trajadura for crisp, aromatic whites.
Loureiro wines to try
Real bottles from The Wine Library.
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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