This month, something new.
Albariño (pronounced Al-Ba-Reenyo), is a Spanish grape variety with crisp, citric and fruit flavours. The main home of the albariño grape is the lush and rainy Rías Baixas region in Galicia, located in northwest Spain. In Portugal, the albariño grape is known as alvarinho. It is primarily grown in the far northwest, which is renowned for its white wines.
You may have noticed albariño popping up on restaurant wine lists or the bottle shop over the last 5 years. From Kumeu to Waiheke Island to Gisborne and Hawkes Bay, to Marlborough, wineries are quietly producing our own NZ version of this European grape staple.
It is a quite subtle yet fascinating alternative to the regular white go-to wine options of sauvignon blanc, pinot gris and chardonnay. Like the early days of our last groovy white - pinot gris, winemakers are exploring different styles, from bone dry to lush and fruity, and finding their feet.
Flavour profile varies, but can include citrus acidity, saline minerality, pineapple, peach, nectarine, apple juice, hay, herbs, and baking spices.
Food matches: oysters, rich seafood platter, freshly steamed mussels, sushi, Spanish tapas.
Babich Marlborough Single Vinyard Albariño 2024 (organic, vegan) $25
Stone fruit, flinty minerality and crisp lemon citrus. Bone dry and light bodied, yet at a deceptive 14% ABV. A hint of tangy yeast and hinto of hernbal thyme.
5 Stars *****
Available: Pt Chev Organic Wines winebox.co.nz
Gemtree Small Batch McLaren Vale (Aus) Albariño 2024 $48
Light to medium bodied and fruity. Pineapple, apple juice and peach, with hints of honey and soft lime acidity, with a tad of star anise.
5 Stars *****
Available: Glengarry
Bodegas Pazo Cilleiro Rías Baixas Spain Albariño $28
Medium bodied. The most approachable of the three IMHO. Pineapple and guava, tangy yeast, apple juice, clover honey, lemon citrus, orange zest and a lengthy rich palate.
5 Stars *****
Available: Pt Chev Organic Wines winebox.co.nz
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