Introducing: Albariño
Get ready for a grape adventure like no other! We're thrilled to unveil the newest addition to our wine portfolio – the 2023 Provenance Albariño. If you haven't met Albariño yet, prepare to be charmed by this vibrant, refreshing wine.
At a Glance
Albariño (pronounced: alba-reen-yo) is celebrated for its aromatic profile, often described as a bouquet of flowers, citrus fruits, and a hint of salinity. These aromas are heightened by the wine's natural acidity, making it an enticing choice for wine lovers seeking complexity and depth in their glass. They are also known for their crisp, zesty acidity. This acidity is a hallmark of Albariño and contributes to its versatility as a food-pairing wine.
2023 Provenance Albariño
Fresh, lively, and enchanting, this charming Spanish varietal, delights the senses with aromas of zesty lime peel and delectable white peach, intertwined with a coastal minerality. The light to medium-bodied palate unveils delicious flavours of ripe peach, plump apricot, and juicy lemon, complemented by vibrant acidity and the perfect balance of fruitiness and complexity. A superb choice for seafood pairings.
History & Origin
Albariño, a white wine grape variety, traces its origins to the lush vineyards of Galicia, a region nestled in the northwest of Spain. With a history dating back several centuries, some records even trace its existence as far back as the 12th century. Albariño grapes have primarily been cultivated in the Rías Baixas appellation within Galicia. Here, the grape variety has thrived for generations, becoming a symbol of the region's viticultural heritage.
Interestingly, it can be argued that Albariño has a dual origin, as the Galicia region straddles the Spain and Portugal border. While its roots may extend to Portugal, Spain is the largest Albariño producer in the world with 32,500 acres of vines dedicated to the variety (compared to 14,300 acres in Portugal). This has solidified Spain as the more commonly recognised home of Albariño. In Portugal, wines produced from the same grape are referred to as Alvarinho.
The grapes are tiny with thick skins. Not only does this make Albariño more challenging to cultivate, it also typically results in a distinct citrus-pith-like bitterness which sets it apart from the crowd. The grape's name is believed to have originated from "alba-riño," which means "the white from the Rhine,".
In Australia, Albariño occupies a distinctive place as an 'alternative variety'. Its lineage remains a subject of debate, with theories suggesting a connection to the French grape Petit Manseng or a Riesling clone from Alsace. Regardless of its ancestry, what's undeniable is that Albariño yields exquisite expressions, demanding greater recognition among Australian wine enthusiasts.
Albariño & Food
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Seafood Delights: Albariño's salinity quality makes it an ideal partner for seafood dishes. Enjoy it with grilled prawns, oysters, or fish tacos. The wine's bright acidity complements the flavours of the ocean effortlessly.
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Poultry Perfection: Albariño also pairs beautifully with poultry. Whether you're savouring roast chicken, turkey, or creamy chicken Alfredo pasta, the wine's acidity cuts through the richness and enhances the flavours.
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Asian Fusion: Albariño's versatility extends to Asian cuisine, where it complements the delicate and spicy flavours of dishes like sushi, Thai green curry, or Vietnamese spring rolls.
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Cheese Companions: Don't hesitate to pair Albariño with a cheese platter featuring creamy brie, tangy goat cheese, or salty Manchego. The wine's acidity balances the richness of the cheeses.
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Vegetable Medleys: Vegetarian dishes with a mix of roasted or grilled vegetables, such as ratatouille or vegetable stir-fry, harmonise beautifully with the bright and fresh character of Albariño.