Albariño

Grape variety	Albariño
Synonyms	Alvarin Branco, Azal Blanco, Galego, Padernã
Grape colour	White grape
Characteristics of the wine	Albariño wines are known for their fresh, aromatic profiles. They often exhibit notes of citrus, green apple, and white peach, with underlying hints of almond and fresh herbs. These wines are typically light to medium-bodied, with a high level of acidity and a slight salinity, a characteristic derived from the coastal vineyards where the grapes are typically grown. Despite their light body, Albariño wines are often rich in texture due to the lees aging that is common in the production process. They are usually consumed young, but the best examples can age well, developing more complex flavors over time.
History	Originated in the Galicia region of Spain, Albariño is a grape variety that dates back over a thousand years. The Romans brought viticulture to the region, and the Albariño grape is believed to have been introduced during this time. Albariño was traditionally grown in pergola trellises along the rivers in Galicia and northern Portugal, and this practice is still common today. Despite its long history, Albariño did not gain widespread recognition until the 1980s and 1990s when quality wine production in the region began to increase.
Ampelographic features	Albariño grapes are small and densely clustered, with a high skin to juice ratio. This results in wines with concentrated flavors and a high level of acidity. The vines are quite hardy, resistant to most diseases and adaptable to different soils. However, they are sensitive to climatic conditions, requiring a cooler maritime climate to thrive.