Tasting Notes

Albariño originated in the Iberian Peninsula (present day Spain). It has been cultivated for centuries primarily in the northwestern region of Galicia. Today it is widely grown with Rias Baixas Spain being the production hub for the grape. Also widely grown in Portugal as the “Alvarinho” grape and grown in California and Australia.

🎯 Overall Character - The wine is generally crisp and refreshing with a mouth watering quality that makes it very food friendly. Some versions, especially those aged in oak, may have a richer texture with notes of tropical fruits.

🍋 On the Nose (Aromatics) - Albariño typically exhibits citrus aromas of lemon zest, lime, mandarin peel and stone fruit aromas of nectarine, white peach, and apricot. Some wines may also present aromas of green apple, pear, orange blossom, jasmine, honeysuckle, fresh basil, fennel and lemongrass.

🍏 On the Palate - Albarino is a light to medium body white wine with high acidity. Alcohol level is considered moderate at about 12-13% ABV. It often features flavours of citrus fruits such as lemon and lime along with stone fruits such as nectarine, peach, and apricot. The finish may include a slight saline quality with a slight bitterness akin to grapefruit. There are aromatic and flavour differences depending on the region the grapes are grown.

🌍 Style Range -

• Rias Baixas (Spain) – Saline, citrus driven and mineral.

• Vinho Verde (Portugal) – Lighter, sometimes slight spritz, lime and green apple

• California – Riper peach, melon, softer acidity

• Australia – Tropical hints (pineapple, guava) with firm acidity

🕰️ Aging Profile - Albarino is typically enjoyed as a young wine. That said, due to the high acidity, Albarino can be aged 5-7 years. There are some premium examples that are aged for 15 years. Aged Albarino typically changes from bright fruity flavours to richer flavours and aromas of nuts.