Alvarinho Delivery or Pickup

Alvarinho, popularly known as Albarino, is a green-skinned grape variety used to produce white wine. It is grown in Galicia, the Northwest region of Spain, and the Moncao and Melgaco regions of Vinho Verde in Northwest Portugal. Presumably, Alvarinho is native to Rias Baixas, which is located in Galicia, Spain. Alvarinho is the Portuguese name for this grape variety, while Albarino is the Galician name. Above 90% of the grape variety grown in Rias Baixas DOC is Alvarinho, occupying about 13,150 hectares. In Vinho Verde, the vineyards cover about 5,782 hectares. 

Alvarinho grapes flourish in the Mediterranean climate. In Rias Baixas, the cool and intermediate climate accompanied by heavy storms makes the grapes thrive in the high-altitude vineyards. The cool weather prevents the grapes from over-ripening and creates a more crisp taste. These grapes also thrive in damp vineyards, but their roots should remain dry. Thus, it's grown on well-draining soils such as sandy and granite soils. In Portugal's Monaco and Melgaco regions, the grapes thrive under a warmer climate since the hills block the rain.

The interest in Spanish grape varieties has influenced Alvarinho's spread to different regions out of Portugal and Spain. Its ability to thrive within oceanic macroclimates has made its adaptation easier. In California, Alvarinho is grown on the coastal mountains that face the seaside. The grape variety has also been introduced in the U.K. and Uruguay, and New Zealand's Nelson, Malborough and Gisborne regions. However, in some areas, such as the U.K., wineries have yet to produce it in large volumes for commercialization.

The Alvarinho grape variety is used to make dry, crisp, and well-textured Alvarinho wines, pale-yellow in color. The wine has high acidity levels, and its alcohol levels are moderate. The flavor in Alvarinho wine is intense, with a citrus undertone, and fruity and floral aromas. Alvarinho is medium-bodied with acid and bitter notes that are compared to the citrus pith on the palate. Here is a list of different aromas found in Alvarinhos:

In Portugal, the Alvarinho grape is an essential component in the white, light, and crisp Vinho Verde wines. Most have a complex structure and high levels of acidity. Dominating flavors are lemon, honeysuckle, lime, honeydew melon, and grapefruit are distinct. The wines are bright and dry. Vinho Verde wine is sometimes bottled with some carbon dioxide, giving it a sparkling sensation on tasting.

According to wine connoisseurs, Alvarinho might top the list of the worlds' best wines. Over the years, it has gained popularity to become among the most globally recognized white grape wines. Here are some types of Alvarinho wines Instacart shoppers can purchase:

There are various foods for shoppers to pair with Alvarinho. Most ingredients needed to prepare these dishes can be ordered and delivered on the same day through Instacart! Take a look at the food selection: