Very Lean, Racy & Slightly Fizzy
Pale yellow with slight fizziness.
Aromas of white flowers, lemon & light nuttiness.
Flavors of tangy & refreshing lemon-lime, tart peach, tart pear with slightly nutty finish. Dry on palate with racy acidity.
A blend usually based on Alvarinho (aka Albarino) & Loureiro grapes but can include Arinto, Azal, Avesso & Trajadura, all local varieties. A light fizziness (carbon dioxide) is usually added but there are even still & oaked versions! Lower in alcohol, generally (9% to 12.5% ABV) & very low in price, a great summer sipper. Vinho Verde means "green wine" suggesting it's intended to be enjoyed young. (In fact, a different red style Vinho Verde Tinto is most often consumed in Portugal.)
Serve cold to enhace its acidity.
Pairs well with sushi, octopus, squid, mussels, tuna, & spicy Tahi, Indian, Middle Eastern, Southeastern Asia & Mexican cuisines.
Comes from...
Vinho Verde region, Northwestern Portugal, the largest DOP wine region in Europe, with nine subregions; Monção s Melgaço (only one allows varietal Alvarinho), and blends are from Cávado, Basto, Ave, Amaraante, Baião, Sousa & Paiva.
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Simliar style wines...Stoned Piper™ style Pinot Gris
Racy Lina™ style Grüner Veltliner
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