What is Albariño?

Albariño is a white grape variety with thick skins that thrives in cool and humid climates, especially on the Iberian Peninsula. It produces light and refreshing wines with high acidity and aromas of citrus, peach, floral and saline. Albariño is the main grape of the Spanish region of Rías Baixas, where it is often labelled by its varietal name. In Portugal, it is known as Alvarinho and it is usually blended with other grapes to make Vinho Verde, a slightly spritzy and peachy wine. Albariño wines are typically consumed young and fresh, but some producers experiment with oak aging or lees contact to add more texture and complexity.