ALBARIÑO WINE

Albariño grapes are a variety native to north-eastern Spain and northern Portugal (where it is known as Alvarinho). The variety dates back to the Middle Age, and theories have been aired that it could have been introduced by the Cluny monks on their pilgrimages to Santiago de Compostela.Galicia and the Vinho Verde region in Portugal are the main producers of Albariño grapes, although their increased popularity means they are now grown in countries such as the USA, Australia and New Zealand.Albariño wine is one of Spain’s most emblematic white wines. It combines freshness, elegance and a unique personality, making it a prominent part of any occasion. We are going to take a closer look at what makes it so special, and see the different styles that we can find.What is Albariño wine and why is it so special?Albariño wine is a wine made using grapes of the same name, a white variety native to the region of Galicia. It is mainly grown in the “Rias Baixas” Designation of Origin region, where the Atlantic climate, the granitic soils and proximity to the sea all contribute to its singularity.Freshness and complexity are the two characteristics that make Albariño so special. Albariño wine stands out for its fruity notes of peach, green apples and citrus fruits, complemented by mineral and floral notes. On the palate it is vibrantly tart, creamy in texture and with a lasting aftertaste, making it ideal to pair with shellfish and fish.Albariño wine is the dry white wine par excellence. Nevertheless, its fragrance and balance between acidity and smoothness can confer a fruity sweetness, even though it doesn’t contain residual sugar. There are some less common versions where Albariño wine is made to be sweeter, but they tend to be experimental or released as limited editions.Those wines have traditionally been drunk as young wines, although some winemakers have recently started to age them, leading to results showing that they have enormous potential.Winemakers are now turning to ageing on the lees, fermentation in barrels or years of bottle-ageing, leading to high quality, complex wines.Consum supermarkets has a carefully chosen assortment of Albariño wines, which combine quality and value for money. The following are some of our recommendations:Martín Códax Albariño: A classic Albariño wine, with a fragrance of white fruit and hints of citrus. Ideal to pair with shellfish or sushi.Paco & Lola Albariño: Presented in bottles with a characteristic design, it is a fresh wine with notes of green apples and lime. Perfect for casual moments.Terras Gauda Albariño: A more complex Albariño wine, with a tropical fragrance and elegant body. Ideal for more sophisticated dishes.Mar de Frades Albariño: Fresh and salty, its emblematic blue bottle changes colour when chilled. Perfect for special events.Condes de Albarei Albariño: A high quality affordable choice, with hints of ripe fruit and well balanced acidity.