I thought there’s no better time than the week before the fourth of July to explore a refreshing summertime grape. Most people think of Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigo or even Chardonnay as summertime wines. However, next time your at the store check out an Alvarinho, which is used to make Vinho Verde, from Portugal or an Albariño from Spain. Same grape, pronounced two different ways.

Alvarinho grapes are grown in the Monção region of Portugal, while Albariño grapes are mostly grown in the Rias Baixas, northwest Spain. These grapes are rarely grown in other regions around the world, although recently there have been plantings in North America to test the appeal among consumers. These grapes are also called Albarín Blanco or Cainho Branco. They arrived on the Iberian peninsula with the help of the Cluny monks in the 12^th century. The name “Alba-Rino” means “the white from Rhine” so its thought these grapes originated from the Alsace region in France and could be a clone of the Riesling grape. However, recorded use of Riesling grapes didn’t occur until several centuries later. So the origins of Alvarinho a.k.a. Albariño may remain a mystery.

In Rias Baixes, the climate is generally cool, windy and rainy. Vines are trained on pergolas to ensure air circulation through the vines. This avoids the the threat of rot, mildew and other fungal diseases. The vines grow in granite and chalky soils, just miles away from the Atlantic Ocean. Albariño grapes develop thick skins so only small amounts of juices are extracted from the grapes.

These grapes are extremely aromatic, similar to a Viognier or Gewurztraminer. Typical descriptions include: almonds, apples, peaches, apricot, citrus and flowers. These wine typically feature a biting acidity that pairs nicely with seafood or shellfish. Albariño from Spain or Alvarinho from Portugal should be consumed while young and fresh. These wines won’t benefit from cellaring.

Vinho Verde literally means “green wine.” If you look closely you might notice just the slightest green tint to a Portuguese Vinho Verde. However, you will definitely notice a few small bubbles in your glass as the wine is slightly effervescent. A refreshing treat on a hot summer afternoon.