Albariño

White

(Albariño pronunciation: ahl-bah-REE-nyoh)

Albariño is considered by many to be Spain's premier quality white wine and we are very excited to be able to bring the variety to the members of our various wine of the month clubs! It is the primary grape used to make Spain’s popular dry white wines in Northwestern Galicia, Spain but has also found a home in the neighboring country of Portugal. Albariño is also known in Portugal as Alvarinho or Cainho Branco and often used as a component of Vinho Verde. Wines made from Albariño are very aromatic, described as having a distinct floral aroma and notes of almonds or almond paste, apples, peaches, citrus, and flowers or grass. This grape has an inherent tartness and an overall light mouthfeel.

The exact origin of the vine is disputed; some believe it arrived in Spain from the region of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté in eastern France, while others think it may be a close relative of the Petit Manseng vine, which originates from the south west of France. The grape is now found scattered throughout the world, as well as in our states of California, Oregon and Washington.

Albariño has a number of different names such as Albarina, Alvin Blanco, Galego, and others. It is also often confused with the Alvarinho Liláz grape of Madeira, Portugal, but is actually a different varietal entirely.

Wines made from Albariño do not cellar well, it's best enjoy the wine within 5 years of its release. By aging the wines on lees, it can give the wine a fuller texture. Albarino has been featured in our International Wine Club our Garagiste Wine Club and even in our Gold Wine Club as a PLUS! bottle. When we find the right bottle that meets our Wine Club standards, chances are we will feature an award-winning Albariño again.

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The wines listed below are selections from our various wine of the month clubs. Choose wines from our 90+ rated Platinum monthly wine club, our Garagiste Artisan Wine Club or our Gold Wine Club. Occasionally we also feature this varietal in our International and Diamond quarterly Wine Clubs. Cheers to our Wine Club members!