Albarino
What is Albarino?
- Albarino is a variety of white grape from Galicia, in North West Spain
- Originally thought to be from central Europe however most believe that the grape is native to the Iberian peninsula
- Is called Alvarinho in Portugal
- Generally considered to be Spain’s equivalent to Pinot Grigio
- Thick skinned grape
Where is Albarino grown?
- Galicia is on the Atlantic Ocean, with a Mediterranean climate
- Grown around the Rías Baixas, four estuarine inlets
- Cool and wet climate compared to the rest of Spain
- Also grown in North West Portugal, where it is called Alvarinho
- Melgaço and Monção are the main Portugal regions for Alvarinho
What does Albarino taste like?
- Dry, crisp, clean, fresh
- Citrous, apricot, peach
- High acid, medium-low alcohol
- Almost never in oak
What food does Albarino go well with?
- Goes very well with seafood, especially lobster and crab
- Great with any lemon based dish