Alvarinho

Say it: ahl-vah-REEN-yoo

The prestige grape of the Monção e Melgaço sub-region, along the Minho river border with Spain’s Galicia, where it is called Albariño. The best age well for a decade or more.

In the glassPeach, apricot, citrus, a saline finish; more body and alcohol than most Vinho Verde.

Wines made with Alvarinho

Vinho Verde (white)

White

Vinho Verde Branco

Light, crisp whites from the rainy northwest, often low in alcohol and sometimes with a slight sparkle. Everyday blends are some of Portugal’s best-known exports; single-variety Alvarinho and Loureiro offer more depth and age well.

Critics: up to 91 pts

Bottles to try

Muros Antigos Alvarinho

White

Anselmo Mendes · Vinho Verde

€10.49lowest of 2 shopsMid-range

Soalheiro Alvarinho

White

Soalheiro · Vinho Verde

€11.99lowest of 2 shopsMid-range

Producers to try

Soalheiro

Melgaço · Vinho Verde

A family pioneer in Melgaço that launched one of the first Alvarinho brands of the area in 1982. Known for pure, mineral Alvarinho in many styles, from fresh to oak-aged and sparkling.

Anselmo Mendes

Monção · Vinho Verde

A winemaker nicknamed “Mr Alvarinho” for his detailed work with the grape, including skin-contact and barrel-aged versions such as Muros de Melgaço.

Aveleda

Est. 1870

Penafiel · Vinho Verde

A family estate with famous gardens. Its Casal Garcia brand is one of the best-selling Vinho Verdes in the world.

Quinta do Regueiro

Est. 1988

Melgaço · Vinho Verde

A family estate in Melgaço that began in 1988 with three hectares of Alvarinho and still focuses on the grape. Its main label is Foral de Melgaço, including an Old Vines bottling.