Albariño

The most distinctive White Grape in Spain and now producing its most expensive dry whites. It is grown almost exclusively in Galacia in Spain's rain- sodden north-west, and in Portugal`s Vinho Verde region where it is known as Alvarinho. Its thick skin enables it to withstand the damp climate of Galicia and the subsequent fruit is small, sweet and high in glycerol, producing wines high in alcohol and acidity.

High quality Albariño dominated wines are intensely aromatic and redolent of peaches, apricots and almonds on the palate. They have the ability to age gracefully and many growers are now experimenting with oak maturation. The finest Albariño wines come from the Rias Baixas zone of Galicia and now sell for very high prices.