Alvarinho, or Albariño as it is called in Spain, is the star of the Vinho Verde grapes. It has a rich and aromatic profile, with enticing notes of grapefruit, peach, floral aromas, and minerality. It has a higher alcohol content than most Vinho Verde wines, ranging from 11.5% to 14%, and it can age well for several years. It is grown exclusively in the Monção e Melgaço subregion of Minho.
Loureiro, also known as “the Riesling of Portugal”, is the most planted grape in Minho. It has a refreshing citrus flavor, with hints of apple, pear, and fragrant flowers. It has a moderate alcohol content of 9% to 11%, and it expresses the terroir of Minho with its elegant and balanced acidity.
Arinto, also known as Pedernã, is a grape that adds a high-acid freshness and structure to Vinho Verde blends. It has captivating notes of lemon, melon, pineapple, and a touch of honey. It can age for up to 10 years, and it is also grown in other Portuguese regions like Bucelas and Tejo.
Azal, the most acidic grape in the Vinho Verde family, gives a tangy twist to the wines. It has a tart lemonade flavor, with a slight bitterness on the finish. It is often blended with other grapes to soften its sharpness, and it has lower alcohol levels of 8% to 10%.
Avesso, mainly grown in the subregions of Baião and Amarante, is a grape that produces full-bodied and complex wines. It has delicious notes of grapefruit, peach, almond, and a subtle smokiness. It has a higher alcohol content of 11% to 13%, and it can age well for up to five years.
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The variety of grapes in White Vinho Verde makes it a versatile wine for food pairing. The wines’ acidity and fizziness pair well with a range of dishes. Seafood lovers will enjoy White Vinho Verde with oysters, clams, shrimp, crab, lobster, octopus, and cod. The wines also go well with lighter dishes, such as salads, sushi, ceviche, chicken dishes, and light pasta dishes. Moreover, White Vinho Verde wines are ideal for cheese lovers, as they can match well with a variety of cheeses, from soft and creamy to hard and aged. Some examples are goat cheese, brie, camembert, manchego, parmesan, and gouda. White Vinho Verde wines are also great for spicy dishes, as they can cool down the heat and enhance the flavors. Try them with Indian, Thai, Mexican, or Moroccan cuisine for a delightful contrast.
White Vinho Verde is a wine that offers a refreshing and exhilarating experience for wine lovers of all kinds. Whether you are looking for a crisp and light wine, or a rich and complex one, you will find it in the Minho wine region of Portugal. White Vinho Verde is a wine that celebrates life and joy, and invites you to join the party. Cheers!
