Albariño

Albariño is a thick-skinned white grape principally grown in the coastal regions of the Iberian Peninsula. It produces high-quality, single-variety white wines and is also a key grape in Portugal’s refreshing Vinho Verde blends.

Albariño’s rich fruit flavors, saline quality, and white floral fragrance form a delicious combination. Its high acidity produces a complex finish, making it a perfect match for many cuisines, especially seafood.

Albariño wines are typically light-bodied and have high acidity, with aromas and flavors of citrus, green apple, and mineral notes. The grape is often used in blends, as it can add acidity and freshness to wines. Albariño is also a popular grape variety for making sparkling wine.

We have a wide selection of fresh and zippy Albariño wines. Shop now and discover the perfect bottle for you.

The Albariño grape is grown primarily in the Rias Baixas region in the northwest of Spain and in the Vinho Verde region of Portugal, where it is known as Alvarinho.

The Albariño grape thrives in the cooler climates of these lowland regions, although the frequent rainfall can create high humidity levels that leave the small, green-skinned grapes susceptible to rot and mildew.

To prevent this, winemakers train the vines as they grow to ensure sufficient airflow around the leaves and grapes to encourage a good harvest.

Albariño is also grown in the U.S., with most vines planted in the central coast areas of California. Uruguay, Chile, Brazil, and New Zealand are also home to Albariño vineyards.

Most Albariño wines are dry white wines, light in body and high in acidity, with moderate alcohol levels ranging from around 11.5%-13% ABV.

As the grapes are grown in maritime areas, the wines can have a saline element that intertwines with zesty citrus and floral aromas, adding to Albariño’s trademark refreshing style.

Albariño wines exude aromas of fresh lime, grapefruit, pear, and honeysuckle. On the palate, expect classic fruit notes such as:

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

The Albariño grapes’ thicker skins can contribute a subtle and pleasing bitter tinge that helps refresh the palate and make you want to come back for another sip.

Some Albariño wines, if aged in lees (the sediment of a wine’s solids naturally land at the bottom of a barrel), may release aromas of bread dough.

Spanish-grown Albariño wines contain floral notes alongside tones of melon, apricot, and citrus fruit combined with hints of salinity from the Atlantic Ocean. Although lively and crisp, they may have an additional viscous texture, which gives them a smoother feel.

Portuguese-grown Albariño wines are often lower in alcohol with fresh, saline, and mineral flavors.

Due to its high acidity and complex flavors, Albariño pairs well with a wide array of foods. Its slightly bitter finish makes it the ideal palate cleanser—great for all appetizers.

Born by the sea, Albariño is the perfect partner for all fish and seafood dishes.

Its flinty, mineral tones also complement classic Mediterranean dishes, such as paella and tapas, along with cheeses like Burrata, Gouda, and salty Feta.

It also pairs well with mild to moderately spiced South-East Asian cuisines.

Albariño wines are usually best drunk young—within four years of the vintage date. Serve your Albariño chilled (between 43 and 46° F) in a traditional white wine glass.