Alvarinho
A grape guide to this Portuguese white grape
Alvarinho is one of the most prized white grapes of Portugal. You may also know it as Albariño, this is the same grape but the names differ depending on which side of the Minho River it is grown, in Rias Baixas of Spain (the north) or the Vinho Verde in Portugal. The grape origins are hotly debated between the Spanish and Portuguese. They both take claim for the grape originating in their countries. Regardless of which side of the Minho River, the grape originates from the northwestern part of the Iberian peninsula next to the Atlantic Ocean. Both countries make excellent wine from the grape.
In Portugal, Alvarinho is primarily grown in the Vinho Verde region in northwest part of the country. The sub-region of Monção and Melgaço produces the most prized Alvarinho wines (see map above). The region is right below the Minho River and protected by mountains from the winds of the Atlantic. The microclimate here is optimal for Alvarinho to thrive with warm days, cool nights and humid dry summers following wet winters.
You will find Alvarinho as single varietal wines as well as blended into traditional Vinho Verde style whites. The grapes of the Vinho Verde are sometimes overlooked due to the entry level effervescent light and refreshing Vinho Verde style wines. Don’t let that sway you on Alvarinho and the complexities you can get from this grape. You will find a lot of the region is leaning towards more serious winemaking these days and Alvarinho is a star, especially blended with Loureiro here. You will also find it blended into other white blends from around the country, I particularly love it when it is grown in the Alentejo region. Like every gape, explore, taste, make notes and remember the style and region you love most.
The grape is thick skinned and very resistant to fungal diseases. However, it is a vigorously growing grape and needs to be properly managed to not have bland tasting wines. Traditionally, due to the humid and wet climate of the Vinho Verde region the grapes were trained and grown on a pergola system. This allows air flow to the grapes to prevent disease.
The wines are aromatic, high in acidity, can have notes of lemon, lemon curd, lime, pineapple, orange, orange blossom, peach, apricot, nectarine, almond, saline, herbs, sometimes bread dough or cream (from lees aging) and minerality. Depending on where the grapes are grown and the style produced, you will find simple white wines to complex age worthy medium bodied wines.
I recommend pairing the wine with seafood dishes, grilled shrimp, grilled sardines, something from the region to complement it. If you need some Portuguese food inspiration or recipes check out these cookbooks I recommend here and click on the Portuguese section.
Alvarinho Recommendations:
Adego do Mato Colheita Selecionada Alvarinho
Aveleda Solos de Xisto Alvarinho
Soalheiro Primeiras Vinhas Alvarinho