Alvarinho 2017 by Casa do Capitao-mor

The Alvarinho grape in Portugal (Albarino in Spain) is a thick skinned grape that can survive the wet climate north in Portugal (DOC Vinho Verde) giving light elegant and refreshing whites without too much problems of rot.

Normal style is zingy and zesty with exotic fruit, lemon and a distinct acidity and minerality. But not everything is normal, so this Casa has made a different version of the Alvarinho grape by using some of the principles of Burgundy white wine making.

The extended time lees with battonage gives a quite different character and complexity to the wine due to the additional flavours from the lees and a more subtle acidity due to malo.

The nose is thus citrus, apple, white flowers and some yeasty character. The taste is crispy, dry, high acidity on the smooth side and quite a decent length.

A well made different style of Alvarinho that drinks well young which can probably keep for 4-6 years as well.

Alvarinho 2017
Minho, Vinho Verde
Casa do Capitao-mor
Portugal
Ca 12€ or 200 NOK

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