Albariño is one of the most loved white wine grapes in Spain and in Portugal, where it is known as Alvarinho. Though the names differ, the grape is genetically identical. Spain primarily grows Albariño in Galicia, particularly in the Rías Baixas region, while Portugal's Alvarinho thrives in the northern Minho province, especially in the sub-region of Monção and Melgaço.
This is a grape that’s captivated wine lovers the world over for its aromatic complexity, vibrant acidity, and ability to reflect its terroir to a tee. From zesty citrus to mineral-driven salinity, both Albariño and Alvarinho are wines that promise a refreshing experience, whether enjoyed solo or paired with food.
The history of Albariño stretches back centuries, with its origins firmly rooted in the Iberian Peninsula. Some theories suggest that the grape was brought to the region by monks on their pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, while some claim it’s an indigenous variety.
In Spain, the rise of Albariño as a premium wine began in the 1980s, when Rías Baixas was officially recognised as a Denomination of Origin (DO). Since then, the region has become synonymous with high-quality Albariño production, with an emphasis on preserving the grape’s natural acidity and aromatic profile.
Similarly, in Portugal, the sub-regions of Monção and Melgaço were among the first to champion Alvarinho as a distinct style within Vinho Verde. The focus in Portugal has shifted towards producing more complex, single-varietal Alvarinhos, setting them apart from the traditional, lower-alcohol blends that Vinho Verde was once known for.
Though the grape is the same, Albariño and Alvarinho express themselves differently depending on where they're grown and how they’re made. In Spain, Albariño is often produced in a clean, crisp style, with a focus on freshness and minerality. The wines tend to display a sharp citrus edge, with hints of stone-fruit, green apple, and saline notes that reflect the coastal influence of Rías Baixas.
Portugal’s Alvarinho, on the other hand, can have a slightly fuller body and a more aromatic character. The wines produced in Minho are known for their floral and tropical fruit aromas, with a touch of richness balanced by acidity. While they retain the grape’s signature freshness, Portuguese Alvarinhos can also show hints of spice and subtle honeysuckle aromas
England
England has officially ventured into the realm of Albariño production! Balfour’s 1503 Albariño is a testament to how well this grape can thrive in cooler climates, with its bright acidity and citrus-forward profile, this is a really unique expression of Albariño, influenced by the English terroir. We love pairing this one with oysters, it adds the squeeze of citrus to lift their creaminess.
New Zealand
Perhaps most famed for its Sauvignon Blanc, Albariño also thrives in New Zealand. The coastal terroir and diverse microclimates make for a huge range of styles from both the North and South islands. Saint Clair’s Pioneer Block Albariño hails from the Marlborough region and delivers a mouthwatering combination of citrus zest, peach, and refreshing mineral notes.
The United States
Albariño has found success in North America, particularly in regions known for their innovation and experimentation. California’s Flora Abeille, produces a lively Albariño that emphasises fruit flavour and brightness. The warm Californian climate gives the wine a slightly richer fruit profile, while still maintaining the crisp character that Albariño is known for.
South Africa
The high acidity and bright fruit flavours of Albariño, and Alvarinho, make the wines excellent pairing options for a wide choice of dishes. The most classic pairing is with seafood, particularly shellfish like oysters, mussels or clams. The saline notes in the wine complement the brininess of the seafood – following the terroir matching technique, where you pair food from the same region with your wine, is always the best option for pairing.
For Portuguese Alvarinho, the fuller body can stand up to more substantial dishes, like grilled fish or lightly spiced Asian cuisine. In general, these wines also pair well with soft cheeses, salads and tapas plates.
So, whether you're drawn to the zesty, mineral-driven Albariños of Spain or the richer, aromatic Alvarinhos of Portugal, this grape has a huge variation of flavours and styles. With its continued innovation around the world – from Europe to New Zealand and beyond – Albariño, or Alvarinho, is a must-try.
